Allopurinol is a medication used to treat gout and certain other medical conditions caused by excess uric acid in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs known as xanthine oxidase inhibitors, which work by reducing the production of uric acid in the body.
Allopurinol is used to treat gout by preventing the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints, which can cause inflammation and pain. It is also used to prevent recurrent kidney stones and to manage certain types of leukemia and lymphoma.
Allopurinol is typically taken orally in tablet form. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific medical condition being treated and the patient's age and weight.
Side effects of allopurinol may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash. Rare but serious side effects may include liver problems or a decrease in white blood cell count.
Allopurinol should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease. It may also interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking before starting treatment with allopurinol.