Allopurinol: how to take it safely
Zyloric
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Prevents gout attacks and kidney stones by lowering uric acid.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water, after food.
- Drink plenty of fluids, at least 2 litres a day.
- Keep taking it even between attacks.
When to take it
Take it once a day, after a meal.
Take it with
After food.
What to avoid
- Starting it during a gout attack. Wait until the attack settles.
- Stopping without advice.
- Not drinking enough fluids.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
- Azathioprine and mercaptopurine unless your doctor changes the dose.
Possible side effects
Gout flares in the first months, nausea, mild rash.
Get help if
Rash, fever, blisters, mouth ulcers or swelling of the face: stop it and get urgent help. Yellow skin or eyes: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.