Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ALLOPURINOL - ORAL

(al-oh-PURE-in-ohl)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zyloprim

Uses

This medication is used in the treatment of gout. It is also used in the management of certain types of kidney stones and to reduce elevated uric acid levels in the blood caused by certain illnesses.

How To Use

This drug is best taken with food or milk to prevent an upset stomach. Unless you require fluid restriction, it is advisable to drink a full glass of water with each dose and to drink at least 8 glasses (8 ounces each) of water a day while taking this drug in order to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Large doses of Vitamin C should be avoided while taking this medicine as it can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.

Side Effects

Allopurinol may cause drowsiness especially during the first few days. Use caution if engaging in activities that require alertness. Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headache may also occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Notify your doctor if you develop: yellowing of the eyes or skin, sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, muscle aches, numbness or tingling of legs and arms, fatigue, rash or itchy skin. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, drug allergies. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, particularly: amoxicillin, ampicillin, azathioprine, chlorpropamide, cyclophosphamide, diuretics ("water pills"), mercaptopurine. Alcohol can decrease the effectiveness of allopurinol. Ask your doctor for advice on drinking alcoholic beverages. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

It may take two to four weeks for effects of this medication to be noticed.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.