ALLOPURINOL - ORAL

ALLOPURINOL - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (AL-oh-PURE-i-nol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zyloprim

GENERIC NAME(S): allopurinol

Uses

USES: Allopurinol is used to treat gout and certain types of kidney stones. It is also used to prevent increased uric acid levels in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. These patients can have increased uric acid levels due to release of uric acid from the dying cancer cells. Allopurinol works by reducing the amount of uric acid made by the body. Increased uric acid levels can cause gout and kidney problems.


How to use ALLOPURINOL - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. Take this medication after a meal to reduce stomach upset. If your dose is more than 300 milligrams a day, you will need to take several smaller doses during the day to get this amount (ask your doctor for directions). It is best to drink a full glass of water with each dose and at least 8 more glasses (8 ounces each) of fluid a day. If your doctor has directed you to drink less fluid for other medical reasons, consult your doctor for further instructions. Your doctor may also instruct you on how to decrease acid in your urine (e.g., avoiding large amounts of ascorbic acid/vitamin C). Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. For the treatment of gout, it may take up to several weeks for this medicine to have an effect. You may have more gout attacks for several months after starting this medicine while the body removes extra uric acid. Allopurinol is not a pain reliever. To relieve pain from gout, continue to take your prescribed medicines for gout attacks (e.g., colchicine, ibuprofen, indomethacin) as directed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or drowsiness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: numbness/tingling of arms/legs, easy bleeding/bruising, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), unusual tiredness, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine, painful/bloody urination), yellowing eyes/skin, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, dark urine, unusual weight loss, eye pain, vision changes. This medication can commonly cause a rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Get medical help right away if you develop any rash. A very serious (possibly fatal) allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking allopurinol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have had a severe reaction to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), unusual diets (e.g., fasting). This drug may make you drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Alcohol may also decrease the effectiveness of this drug. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana. Kidney function declines as you grow older. This medication is removed by the kidneys. Therefore, older adults may be at greater risk for side effects while using this drug. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Allopurinol passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (such as prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug are: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), didanosine.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Reviews

For Uric Acid Kidney Stones: I use Allopurinol for uric acid kidney stones, though I know it is often prescribed for gout. This medicine has prevented further recurrence of the uric acid stones with no negative side effects. It is a blessing for me!

By on 26 Feb, 2024



Faq for ALLOPURINOL - ORAL

Allopurinol is used to treat gout and certain types of kidney stones caused by high levels of uric acid in the body.

Allopurinol works by reducing the production of uric acid in the body, thus preventing the formation of uric acid crystals that can cause gout attacks or kidney stones.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Common side effects of Allopurinol include skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. However, serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions are rare but possible. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any severe side effects.

No, Allopurinol should not be started or increased during a gout attack as it can worsen the symptoms initially. It is usually recommended to start Allopurinol once the attack has subsided.

Allopurinol may take several weeks to months to start working effectively. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not notice an immediate improvement in your symptoms.

Allopurinol may interact with certain medications, so it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Your doctor will determine if any adjustments need to be made.

It is generally recommended to avoid using Allopurinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider in such cases.

Yes, Allopurinol is often used for long-term treatment to control and prevent recurrent gout attacks and kidney stone formation. It is important to regularly monitor uric acid levels and consult with a doctor for appropriate dosage adjustments.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.