Chemical Name: ALLOPURINOL (al-oh-PURE-i-nole)
Common uses
Allopurinol is a hyperuricemic agent used to treat gout and to prevent certain kidney stones from reforming. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your physician.
Prior to Use
Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions, or taking additional medications could interfere with the
effectiveness of this one. Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: azathioprine or mercaptopurine. Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. If you have questions or concerns about Allopurinol, be sure to let your physician or pharmacist know.
Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Allopurinol. Take Allopurinol with food or milk. Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Allopurinol is recommended. For directions, consult your physician or nurse. Store Allopurinol at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Should you skip or forget a dose of Allopurinol, begin using it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Never take more than one dose at the same time.
Warnings
It may take 2 weeks or more to receive the full benefit of Allopurinol. Do not stop taking Allopurinol without checking with your physician. Allopurinol is not useful for relieving an acute gout attack. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . Women, if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your physician the benefits and risks of using Allopurinol during pregnancy. Allopurinol is excreted in breast milk if you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Allopurinol, consult your pharmacist or physician to discuss the risks to your baby.
Potential Side Effects
Consult your physician immediately if you experience a skin rash, skin sores, itching, hives, painful urination, blood in urine, fever, irritation of the eyes, or swelling of lips or mouth. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.
In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed.
Additional information
Do not let anyone else use Allopurinol. Do not take Allopurinol to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children. If using Allopurinol for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
