Drug Notes

Allopurinol (By mouth)

Allopurinol (al-oh-PURE-i-nol)

Treats gout and kidney stones. Lowers the amount of uric acid in the blood.

Brand Name(s):

Zyloprim

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Keep taking this medicine, even if you think it is not working and you are taking other medicines for gout attacks. The attacks should become shorter and less severe after you take allopurinol for several months.
• Drink 10 to 12 full glasses of water each day unless directed differently by your doctor.
• You may take allopurinol after meals to prevent stomach upset.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines and foods can affect how allopurinol works. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
  • A blood thinner, such as warfarin or dicumarol
  • A diuretic (water pill)
  • Ampicillin, amoxicillin, cyclosporine
  • Mercaptopurine, azathioprine
  • Sulfinpyrazone
• Do not take large doses of vitamin C while you are taking allopurinol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, seizures, kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, or other medical problems.
• This medicine may make you drowsy. Do not drive or do anything that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Eye irritation
• Joint pain or muscle aches
• Pain when you urinate, blood in your urine
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017