ALLOPURINOL
Background and Date of Approval
Allopurinol is an anti-hyperuricemic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1966 for the treatment of gout and chemotherapy-induced hyperuricaemia.
Uses
Allopurinol helps to treat gout (a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by sudden and severe attacks of pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling in the joints, most commonly affecting the base of the big toe). This tablet is also used to treat chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia. Some cancer treatments can cause an increase in uric acid levels, which may lead to kidney damage or gout. This medicine may be used with chemotherapy to prevent hyperuricemia and its associated complications.
How is it administered?
Take the Allopurinol Tablet as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Allopurinol are skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, and drowsiness.
Warnings
Allopurinol is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. Stop taking this tablet and contact your doctor immediately if you develop a rash or skin symptoms. Inform your doctor of any heart, thyroid, kidney, or liver disease. Your physician may prescribe you a low dose and perform regular blood tests.
Precautions
It is generally recommended to avoid using Allopurinol during pregnancy unless it is necessary. Taking this drug while breastfeeding is unsafe because it may affect the child. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
Word of Advice
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience tiredness or weakness during treatment. Avoid triggers of gout attacks, including fasting, rapid weight loss, and stress, while taking Allopurinol. Foods rich in purines should be avoided, including red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood, as these increase uric acid levels and may reduce drug effectiveness. Limit consumption of these foods during therapy. Ensure adequate water intake. Smoking causes oxidative stress in the body, raising uric acid levels. Avoid smoking and tobacco products during treatment with this medication. Allopurinol contains lactose as an inactive ingredient. Patients unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, may experience bloating and abdominal pain. If you have lactose intolerance, inform your doctor before starting this therapy.
References
Strides Pharma UK Limited, European Medicine Consortium (EMC), [Revised on April 2022], Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.14283.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023]. Allopurinol - food and drug administration (FDA). [Revised on Feb 2022], Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/020298s012lbl.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023]. Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Inflammation, Immunomodulation and Hematopoiesis, pharmacotherapy of gout, 12th edition, 2011, 996. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antirheumatoid and antigout drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 213-217.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Allopurinol help in treating gout?
Allopurinol works by inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which converts purines into uric acid. By reducing uric acid production, this drug helps lower uric acid levels in the blood count and prevents the formation of urate crystals, which cause gout and kidney stones.
How do I take Allopurinol?
Allopurinol is taken orally in the form of tablets. The frequency and dosage of administration will depend on the individual's condition and the doctor's recommendation. It is taken once daily, with or after a meal, along with plenty of fluids.
Are there any common side effects of Allopurinol?
Common side effects of Allopurinol may include skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, and headache. These side effects are temporary and mild. If you experience a severe skin rash, allergic reactions, or other side effects, seeking medical attention is important.
How long does Allopurinol take to start working?
The full effect of Allopurinol may take several weeks or even months to be noticeable. You must continue taking this tablet as your doctor prescribes, even if you do not experience immediate relief.
Can Allopurinol be used in children?
Allopurinol is generally not recommended in children under 11 unless specifically prescribed by a pediatric specialist. Dosage adjustments may be required in pediatric patients.