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Last Updated: 12/23/2024

Allopurinol

Drug Name(s): Zyloprim

Class: Uric acid reducer

Type: Xanthine oxidase inhibitor

Used to prevent gout attacks by reducing uric acid production.

Dosage

Form(s): tablet 

100 to 800 mg daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose so that your blood uric acid level is lower than 6 mg/dL.

 

Special Instructions

Take consistently and long term. Failure to do so could cause uric acid to increase and gout attacks to return.

Do not start or stop this drug during a flare.

Stop taking this medication and call your doctor at the first sign of a rash, which may be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Take immediately after a meal.

Potential Side Effects

Gout flares, hives, itching, rash

Be Aware

Before taking allopurinol, tell your doctor if you use azathioprine (Imuran) or if you have kidney disease. Gout attacks are likely to occur when starting this drug. These attacks can be reduced by taking lower doses and by taking the drug with colchicine or NSAIDs.

The Arthritis Foundation’s Drug Guide is meant for education — not self-medicating. The Arthritis Foundation does not endorse any products mentioned in this guide. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness of the information provided.