|
allopurinol Health Article
|
| Table of Contents |
Generic name(s):
allopurinolBrand name(s):ZyloprimWhat is the most important information I should know about allopurinol?Do not use this medication if you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to allopurinol.Allopurinol can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can make your condition worse. Allopurinol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.What is allopurinol?Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid in your body. Uric acid buildup can lead to gout or kidney stones. Allopurinol is used to treat gout or kidney stones, and to decrease levels of uric acid in people who are receiving cancer treatment. Allopurinol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking allopurinol?Do not use this medication if you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to allopurinol. Before taking allopurinol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take allopurinol. FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Allopurinol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.How should I take allopurinol?Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication. Take each dose with a full glass of water. To reduce your risk of kidney stones forming, drink 8 to 10 full glasses of fluid every day, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.Allopurinol can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments. Store allopurinol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.What happens if I miss a dose?Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. |
advertisement |
|
Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.