Allopurinol is used to take care of gout and certain forms of kidney stones. Its also used to prevent increased uric acid levels in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy. These patients can have increased uric acid levels due to launch of the crystals from the dying cancer cells. Allopurinol works by reducing the total amount of the crystals made by the human body. Increased uric acid levels can cause gout and kidney problems.
Take this medication by mouth, often once daily or as directed by your doctor. Simply take this medicine after dinner to cut back stomach upset. A day, you will need to take several smaller doses during the day to get this amount (ask your doctor for directions) if your dose is more than 300 milligrams.
It's a good idea to drink a glass that is full of 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 directions. Your medical professional may instruct you on also how to diminish acid in your urine (e.g., avoiding big amounts of ascorbic acid/vitamin C).
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the benefit that is most from this. To help you keep in mind, go on it at the same time(s) every day.
For the treating gout, it might 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 acid that is uric. Allopurinol isn't a pain reliever. To relieve pain from gout, continue steadily to just take your prescribed medicines for gout attacks (e.g., colchicine, ibuprofen, indomethacin) as directed by your medical practitioner.
Inform your medical professional if your problem persists or worsens.
Belly upset, sickness, diarrhea, or drowsiness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your pharmacist or doctor promptly.
Remember that your physician has prescribed this medication she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of adverse effects because he or. Many people using this medication do not have adverse that is serious.
Inform your medical practitioner right away if some of these unusual but extremely serious adverse effects occur: numbness/tingling of arms/legs, effortless bleeding/bruising, signs of illness (age.g., fever, persistent sore throat), unusual tiredness, painful/bloody urination, improvement in the total amount of urine, yellowing eyes/skin, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, dark urine, unusual dieting, eye pain, vision changes.
An extremely serious (perhaps fatal) allergic response to this medication is rare. Nonetheless, look for immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is simply not a complete list of possible adverse effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your pharmacist or doctor.
Within the US -
Call your medical professional for medical advice about adverse effects. You could report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your physician for medical advice about negative effects. You could report effects that are side Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
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 ingredients that are inactive which could cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before applying this medication, inform your medical professional or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver illness, kidney condition, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), unusual food diets (e.g., fasting).
This drug might make you drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
Alcohol might decrease the effectiveness of this drug. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Kidney function declines as you develop older. This medication is removed by the kidneys. Therefore, older grownups are at greater risk for adverse effects while using this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication must be used only if obviously needed. Discuss the risks and advantages together with your doctor.
Allopurinol passes into breast milk. Consult your physician before breast-feeding.
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