Allopurinol

About Allopurinol

Allopurinol is used to treat excess uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a waste product from the breakdown of purines.

Useful information

Uric acid forms crystals in your joints to cause gout and kidney stones. High uric acid levels are also associated with some types of cancer.

It may take some weeks to experience the benefits of allopurinol.

How does Allopurinol work?

Allopurinol inhibits the activity of an enzyme (proteins that control the rate of certain activities in the body) called xanthine oxidase, which is required for the conversion of purines to uric acid.

High uric acid levels may be due to

• Reduced removal of uric acid from the body.

  This is due to kidney impairment and certain medications.

• Increased production of uric acid by the body.

  In diseases such as cancer, a lot of cells are broken down and excess purines are produced.

• Excess purine intake.

  Purines are found in alcohol, fatty fish, organ meat, and high-sugar (fructose) drinks like soda.

What are the side-effects I may experience?

You may experience:

• Diarrhea

• Drowsiness

Contact your pharmacist or doctor if you experience:

• Rashes

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Yellowing of eyes or skin

Are there any medications and foods I should avoid?

You can eat normally when taking allopurinol.

Useful information

• Note that alcohol and high-sugar (fructose) drinks can increase uric acid levels.

• Take a lot of water with allopurinol.

• Take a list of all your other medications and show them to your pharmacist or doctor before you start taking allopurinol.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you forget to take your prescription, take it as soon as you remember.

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose.

If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and take the next one.

Can I drive or operate machinery?

Allopurinol can make you feel drowsy. Don’t drive or operate machinery if your concentration is affected.

Should I be bothered about possible addiction or dependence?

Allopurinol isn’t addictive.

Will my sexual performance, fertility or contraceptive be impaired?

Allopurinol rarely affects sexual performance. If you notice erectile dysfunction or enlarged breasts, inform your doctor or pharmacist.

Allopurinol doesn’t interfere with contraceptives. Allopurinol also hasn't been proven to affect human fertility.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

• There is insufficient data on the safety of allopurinol during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Don’t use allopurinol in pregnancy without consulting your pharmacist or doctor.

• A very small amount of allopurinol is found in breastmilk, and it is unlikely to harm your baby.

  However, if you notice your baby feeling unwell or feeding poorly, report it to your doctor or pharmacist immediately.