Allopurinol is used to treat gout and certain kinds of kidney stones. It is also used to prevent increased uric acid amounts in patients cancer chemotherapy that is receiving. These patients can have increased uric acid levels due to release of uric acid from the dying cancer cells. Allopurinol works by reducing the level of uric acid made by the body. Increased uric acid levels may cause gout and renal problems.
Take this medication by mouth, often once daily or as directed by your physician. Take this medicine after a meal to reduce stomach upset. If your dose is more than 300 milligrams a day, you will need to take several smaller doses during the day to get this amount (ask your doctor for directions).
It is most beneficial to drink a full glass of water 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 with your doctor for further directions. Your medical professional may also instruct you on just how to decrease acid in your urine (e.g., avoiding large quantities of ascorbic acid/vitamin C).
Dosage is founded on your condition that is medical and to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the benefit that is most from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
For the treatment of gout, it might take up to weeks that are several this medicine to have an effect. You may have more gout attacks for several months after starting this medicine while the body removes extra uric acid. Allopurinol is not a pain reliever. To reduce pain from gout, continue to take your prescribed medicines for gout assaults (e.g., colchicine, ibuprofen, indomethacin) as directed by your medical professional.
Inform your doctor when your condition persists or worsens.
Stomach upset, sickness, diarrhea, or drowsiness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your medical professional has prescribed this medicine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of adverse effects. Many people using this medication do not have adverse that is serious.
Tell your doctor right away if some of these rare but very serious adverse effects happen: numbness/tingling of arms/legs, easy bleeding/bruising, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore neck), unusual tiredness, painful/bloody urination, modification within the amount of urine, yellowing eyes/skin, severe stomach/abdominal discomfort, persistent nausea/vomiting, dark urine, unusual weight loss, eye discomfort, eyesight changes.
A very serious (possibly fatal) sensitive response to this drug is unusual. However, seek instant medical attention if you notice any observeable symptoms of a significant allergic attack, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially for the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.
This isn't a list that is complete of adverse effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Phone your medical practitioner for medical advice about part impacts. You may report effects that are side Food And Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about adverse impacts. You could report effects that are side Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before taking allopurinol, tell your medical professional 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 inactive ingredients, which could cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for additional information.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, particularly of: liver disease, kidney condition, diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), uncommon diets (e.g., fasting).
This medication 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.
Liquor might decrease the effectiveness of this drug. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Kidney function declines as you get older. The kidneys remove this medication. Therefore, older grownups may be at greater risk for unwanted effects while using this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication should be properly used only when obviously required. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical professional.
Allopurinol passes into breast milk. Consult your medical professional before breast-feeding.
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