Allopurinol is a medication used to treat gout and certain types of kidney stones by lowering high levels of uric acid in the body. It works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for the production of uric acid. By reducing uric acid levels, allopurinol helps to prevent gout attacks and long-term joint damage. It is also used to manage elevated uric acid levels in patients undergoing cancer treatment, as these therapies can cause a rapid increase in uric acid due to cell breakdown.
- Allopurinol is not used to treat acute gout attacks, it is intended for long term prevention
- Allopurinol treats chronic gout by reducing uric acid levels which in turn prevents gout attacks
- Allopurinol is used as an adjunctive treatment for cancer therapy and is also prescribed for certain types of kidney stones
- One of the more serious side effects of allopurinol is a severe skin rash, which can lead to a condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis in rare cases
- This medication is only suitable for patients already taking this medication
- Patients are often advised to maintain adequate hydration while taking allopurinol to help prevent kidney stones and aid in the elimination of uric acid
- Drinking alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of allopurinol and increase the risk of gout flare-ups, so it is generally recommended to limit or avoid alcohol
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Medication Description
Allopurinol is a prescription medication used to treat chronic gout, certain types of kidney stones, and elevated uric acid levels in patients undergoing cancer therapy. It works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the production of uric acid. By lowering uric acid levels in the bloodstream, Allopurinol helps prevent gout flare-ups and joint damage over time.It is also used as an adjunct therapy in cancer treatment, particularly during chemotherapy, which can cause rapid cell breakdown and a dangerous spike in uric acid levels (tumor lysis syndrome).How to Use:Allopurinol is most commonly prescribed to take once daily, usually after meals to minimize stomach upset, unless otherwise directed by your provider.Patients should drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to support kidney function and help prevent kidney stone formation.The dosage is individualized and may be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on uric acid levels and clinical response.Note: Allopurinol is not effective for treating active gout attacks. It is meant for ongoing prevention, and starting it during an acute flare may worsen symptoms.Important Usage Notes:Alcohol can interfere with its effectiveness and increase the risk of gout attacksMaintaining hydration is especially important while taking this medication
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Allopurinol Side Effects
Allopurinol side effects may include: Diarrhea, rash, fever, headache, gout attack, swelling of face or throat, dizziness, hepatotoxicity, confusion, indigestion.
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Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.
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