Allopurinol (known brand names are Aloprim®, Lopurin®, Zyloprim®) is used to treat gout, high levels of uric acid in the body brought on by particular cancer medications, and kidney stones. Allopurinol is in a class of medications called xanthine oxidase inhibitors. It works by minimizing the production of uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid might cause gout attacks or kidney stones. Allopurinol is used to prevent gout attacks, not to treat them once they happen.
Usage
Allopurinol comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is typically taken once or twice a day, preferably after a meal. To help you remember to take allopurinol, take it around the very same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not comprehend. Take allopurinol exactly as directed. Do not take basically of it or take it regularly than recommended by your doctor. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dosage of allopurinol and slowly increase your dose, not more than as soon as a week.
It might take a number of months or longer before you feel the complete benefit of allopurinol. Allopurinol might increase the number of gout attacks during the first few months that you take it, although it will ultimately prevent attacks. Your doctor might recommend another medication such as colchicine to prevent gout attacks for the first few months you take allopurinol. Continue to take allopurinol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking allopurinol without talking with your doctor.
Other Uses for This Medicine
Allopurinol is also sometimes used to treat seizures, pain brought on by pancreas disease, and particular infections. It is also sometimes used to improve survival after coronary bypass, to minimize ulcer relapses, and to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. Speak to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be recommended for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist to find out more.
Special Precautions
Before taking allopurinol:
- inform your doctor and pharmacist if you dislike allopurinol or any other medications.
- inform your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and natural items you are taking. Be sure to discuss any of the following: amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox); ampicillin (Polycillin, Principen); anticoagulants (‘ blood slimmers’) such as warfarin (Coumadin); cancer chemotherapy drugs such as cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) and mercaptopurine (Purinethol); chlorpropamide (Diabinese); diuretics (‘ water pills’); medications that reduce the body immune system such as azathioprine (Imuran) and cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); other medications for gout such as probenecid (Benemid) and sulfinpyrazone (Anturane); and tolbutamide (Orinase). Your doctor may need to change the dosages of your medications or monitor you thoroughly for side effects.
inform your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease or heart failure. - tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to end up being pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you conceive while taking allopurinol, call your doctor.
- you must know that allopurinol might make you drowsy. Do not drive an automobile or operate machinery until you know how this medication impacts you.
- ask your doctor about the safe use of liquors while you are taking allopurinol.
Diet with Allopurinol
Drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids each day while taking allopurinol unless directed to do otherwise by your doctor.
If You Forgot a Dose
Take the missed out on dose as soon as you remember it. Nevertheless, if it is practically time for the next dose, skip the missed dosage and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dosage to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
Allopurinol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not disappear: upset stomach, diarrhea, sleepiness.
Some side effects can be major. The following symptoms are unusual, however if you experience any of them, call your doctor instantly: skin rash, painful urination, blood in the urine, inflammation of the eyes, swelling of the lips or mouth, fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection, loss of appetite, unanticipated weight loss, itching. Allopurinol might cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual issues while taking this medication.
What Else You Should Know
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain laboratory tests to examine your body’s reaction to allopurinol. Do not let anybody else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any concerns you have about refilling your prescription. It is essential for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over the counter) medicines you are taking, in addition to any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You need to bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a healthcare facility. It is likewise important details to carry with you in case of emergencies.
