Allopurinol is a medication that belongs to the class of xanthine oxidase inhibitors. It is primarily used to lower uric acid levels in the blood, which helps prevent gout attacks and manage conditions associated with high uric acid levels, such as kidney stones and certain enzyme disorders.
Dosage Form:
- Strength: 300 mg per tablet
- Packaging: Available in packs of 28 tablets.
Indications
Allopurinol is indicated for:
- Gout Management: Prevention of gout attacks by reducing uric acid levels.
- Kidney Stones: Treatment of recurrent calcium oxalate stones in patients with hyperuricosuria.
- Cancer Treatment: Reduces uric acid levels in patients undergoing chemotherapy, which can lead to increased uric acid production.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for adults typically starts low and may be adjusted based on individual needs:
- Initial Dose: 100 mg to 300 mg daily, depending on the severity of the condition.
- Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 400 mg to 600 mg daily as needed, but not exceeding 900 mg daily in severe cases.
Warnings and Precautions
- Pregnant Women: Should use only if clearly needed; consult a healthcare provider before use.
- Elderly Patients: May require dose adjustments due to increased sensitivity to medications.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: Monitoring and dosage adjustments are necessary due to potential accumulation of the drug.
Drug Interactions
Allopurinol may interact with other medications, particularly:
- Anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners.
- Other Medications Affecting Uric Acid Levels: Such as probenecid.
