Uric acid is a chemical that is produced within our body when it breaks down substances called purines. These purines can be found in a series of foods such as liver, anchovies, beans, among others or in beverages such as beer. Uric acid is present in our blood and goes to the kidney, where it is excreted through the urine. When a person has a very high level of uric acid in the blood, they are more likely to suffer from health problems and get sick. Its accumulation conditions the person to suffer a series of diseases and one of them is gout, in which an inflammation of the joints occurs due to the presence of this acid, causing pain and inflammation. It is important to keep the levels of this acid stable in the body, Therefore, it is recommended to apply a specific treatment for the condition such as Allopurinol. In the following FastlyHealarticle we will talk to you about theAllopurinol: What is it for, dosage and side effects .
Table of Contents
Allopurinol: what it is and what it is for
It is a drug belonging to the group of xanthine oxidase inhibitors. Used to reduce uric acid levels within a person’s body, such as gout or in the event of effects after taking certain medications for the treatment of kidney stones or cancer. Likewise, it is used to prevent a gout attack .
Therapy with this drug should be suspended once the cause that produces the increase in uric acid is no longer present and should be carefully evaluated from the beginning of treatment and, in addition, the benefits or risks that this drug may bring with it.
The Allopurinol also is used for:
- Treat seizures.
- Relieve pains generated in the pancreas.
- For some infections.
- It is used to prevent rejection in a kidney transplant.
- In the case of patients with ulcers, as it reduces the chances of relapse.
Presentation and dosage of Allopurinol
Allopurinol is sold on the market in tablet form for oral administration. Specialists recommend that 100 mg as the minimum effective dose , and it can be taken one to two times a day, however depending on the criteria mentioned, this dose can be adjusted to more number of milligrams so that it is able to deal with the condition.
The indication of this drug should be by a professional and should not be withdrawn unless he himself indicates it. It is recommended to be taken at the same time and after meals . Its consumption can be prolonged even up to a few months, all depending on the professional’s indication.
The dose will vary depending on the type of condition and its severity, however the most common is that in case of mild gout, consume between 200 mg to 300 mg per day and if the gout is moderate or severe between 400 mg to 600 mg. It can be administered in a single dose when it is equivalent to 300 mg, and those doses greater than 300 mg must be divided, that is, twice a day. With a minimum dose, a desired effect is achieved, although in some cases, when the condition is severe, up to 800 mg a day may be indicated , which is the maximum dose .
Professionals recommend that to avoid gout attacks, it should be started with a minimum dose and later it will be increased until uric acid levels are stable. This can take between one to three weeks.
Side effects of allopurinol
Allopurinol has shown through a series of studies to be an effective drug in decreasing the production of uric acid in the body, however it can bring with it a series of side effects , which despite being few common can become serious. It is important that you inform your doctor if you have any of the following effects:
- Diarrhea and an upset stomach.
- Sickness.
- Drowsiness.
- Eye irritation.
- General malaise such as fever, sore throat, chills.
- Signs of infection.
- Allergy signs such as: skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips or difficulty breathing.
- Loss of appetite and weight.
- Tingling of arms and legs.
- Bruising
- Signs of kidney problems such as change in urine volume, yellow skin, painful and bloody urination.
- Liver disorders
- Epileptic fits (rarely).
Allopurinol: precautions and recommendations
In which cases the intake of Allopurinol is not recommended , that is why if you suffer from any of the following conditions you should consult your doctor:
- It should be taken into account that if you have had previous kidney problems or cardiovascular disorders, the consumption of this drug can bring even more serious problems for your health.
- In case you are pregnant, you should consult with your doctor about the administration of this drug, since its consumption can harm your baby.
In addition, you must follow the consumption recommendations :
- Driving is not recommended when taking this drug, because it causes drowsiness.
- You should not drink alcoholic beverages while taking this medicine, since it reduces its effectiveness.
- Drink enough water.
- Follow the instructions prescribed on the medicine. Take it as directed by the professional, do not exceed or decrease the dose.
- Take into account that allopurinol at the beginning of treatment can increase gout attacks but at the same time they will be prevented.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Allopurinol: what it is for, dosage and side effects , we recommend that you enter our Medication and medical tests category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.