Allopurinol

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-Allopurinol (tablets), Puricos (tablets), Zyloprim (tablets)

Drug type:

Medication for gout

Prescription needed:

Yes

What does it do?

• Allopurinol is used to prevent gout
• Gout is an arthritis caused by the deposit of uric acid crystals in the joints

How does it work?

Allopurinol inhibits uric acid formation by blocking the enzyme xanthine oxidase. This reduces the amount of uric acid in the blood stream.

How should it be used?

• Only start Allopurinol several weeks after an acute gout attack has subsided as it may precipitate another episode
• For acute gout use colchicine or anti-inflammatories until uric acid levels have normalised
• If you have an acute gout attack while on allopurinol, continue treatment and take anti-inflammatories to reduce pain.
• Continue chronic use of Allopurinol in order to prevent further attacks
• Keep hydrated to avoid gout attacks, recommended fluid intake 2 litres per day

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Adult dose 100–900mg daily
• Tablets taken 1–3 x daily after food

How quickly will it start to work?

Usually within 24–48 hours

How long will the effects last?

Up to 30 hours

When should I stop using it?

Use as directed by your doctor

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Yes

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Less common: nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, taste/visual disturbances
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, sore throat, fever, chills

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems
• Other medicines: ACE inhibitors, anticoagulants, ciclosporin, didanosine, mercaptopurine, azathioprine, theophylline
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Safety in pregnancy not established. Drug passes into the breast milk but is not known to be harmful to the baby.
• Children: Reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: caution, the drug may cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: not recommended, alcohol may worsen gout