Allopurinol

What is allopurinol?

• Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid in your body.
• Allopurinol is used to treat gout, increased levels of uric acid caused by cancer treatment, and kidney stones that are caused by high levels of uric acid.
• Allopurinol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about allopurinol?

• To reduce the risk that kidney stones will form, drink 8 to 10 full glasses (8-ounce glasses) of fluid every day, unless your doctor directs otherwise.
• Avoid alcohol. It may worsen your condition.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Allopurinol may cause drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness, avoid these activities.

How should I take allopurinol?

• Take allopurinol exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water. Also, to reduce the risk that kidney stones will form, drink 8 to 10 full glasses (8-ounce glasses) of fluid every day, unless your doctor directs otherwise.
• Take allopurinol with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
• Store allopurinol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking allopurinol?

• Before taking allopurinol, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a lower dose of allopurinol or special monitoring during your therapy.
• Allopurinol is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether allopurinol will harm an unborn baby. Do not take allopurinol without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Allopurinol passes into breast milk. Do not take allopurinol without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What should I avoid while taking allopurinol?
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Allopurinol may cause drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness, avoid these activities.
• Avoid alcohol. It may worsen your condition.
• Follow your doctor's recommendations about diet.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of an allopurinol overdose are not known.

What are the possible side effects of allopurinol?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking allopurinol and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· blood in your urine or pain when you urinate;
· a rash;
· eye irritation;
· fever, chills, or joint aches; or
· severe nausea or vomiting.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take allopurinol and talk to your doctor if you experience
· upset stomach or diarrhea;
· headache, dizziness, or drowsiness; or
· an acute attack of gouty arthritis.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any reaction that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has more information about allopurinol written for health professionals that you may read.