Allopurinol

Product Description

Allopurinol is a medication used to lower elevated levels of uric acid in the body and aid in the gradual dissolution of urate crystals. It plays a key role in the management of gout and related conditions by helping prevent the formation of new uric acid deposits. The drug works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for the conversion of hypoxanthine to xanthine, and subsequently to uric acid. By disrupting this pathway, Allopurinol effectively reduces the overall uric acid concentration in the bloodstream, helping to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Safety Information

Indications for Use

Allopurinol is commonly prescribed to patients suffering from disorders related to elevated uric acid levels, such as gout (podagra), urate kidney stones, and urate nephropathy. It is also indicated for individuals with primary or secondary hyperuricemia, including those undergoing chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies like leukemia. In pediatric practice, Allopurinol 100 mg may be used for children over 15 years old who are at risk of urate nephropathy or experiencing secondary hyperuricemia due to congenital enzymatic deficiencies or cancer treatment. Its therapeutic use spans both preventive and long-term disease management strategies.

Mode of Application

Allopurinol tablets are taken orally and should be swallowed whole with a generous amount of water, preferably after meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Maintaining adequate fluid intake is essential to support normal kidney function and promote the excretion of uric acid. In certain cases, urine alkalinization may be recommended to prevent stone formation. The dosage is individualized based on the patient’s plasma uric acid level, with an initial starting dose usually at 100 mg per day. Dosage adjustments are typically made every 1 to 3 weeks depending on response, with an average maintenance dose ranging from 200 to 600 mg daily. In more severe cases, higher doses up to 800 mg per day may be prescribed under medical supervision.

Side Effects

Allopurinol is generally well tolerated, although some patients may experience mild or transient side effects. At the beginning of treatment, gout flare-ups can occur due to shifting uric acid levels. Rare but serious adverse effects include blood disorders such as agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, or aplastic anemia, as well as liver dysfunction and hypersensitivity reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Neurological symptoms such as headache, ataxia, neuropathy, and changes in vision or taste have also been reported in isolated cases. Gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, low blood pressure, infertility, and hormonal changes may occur, although such reactions are uncommon. Any severe or persistent symptoms should be promptly reported to a healthcare provider.