As a result of some medical treatments for cancer and kidney stones, there are elevations in uric acid levels and that develops some disorders in our health.
In this regard, there is a branch of drugs that are xanthine oxidase inhibitorsthatare used in these cases.
Allopurinol is part of this group of drugsand in the following article we will delve into what it is, what it is for, its side effects and contraindications.
What is allopurinol?
Allopurinol is a drug, the active principle or metabolite of which is oxypurinol. It is indicated for the reduction of uric acid production in the body, also decreasing the concentrations of urate in plasma and urine.
In this sense, its doses range from 150 mg to 800 mg depending on the treatment applied, but a constant consumption of liquids is recommended during it. Doses exceeding 300 mg should be applied in divideddoses and withdrawal of treatment should always be reductive.
Note: The doses applied should be studied and adapted to control serum and uric acid concentrations, sinceall bodies are different and should not be exposed to high and unnecessary doses. The lowest possible rank should be maintained.
What is allopurinol for?
Allopurinol has a fairly objective application, sotreatment should be indicated and strictly supervised. We mention below in which cases allopurinol is used:
1. Gout
A complex form of arthritis is known as gout, which is characterized by severe pain, inflammation and tenderness in the joints.
To highlight: Allopurinol is oriented in doses that increase from 100 mg to 600 mg in severe cases, which, although it does not reduce attacks during the first 6 months, shows progressive and controlled effectiveness. (1)
2. High levels of uric acid
so allopurinol is used to control and inhibit the production of uric acid due to the inhibition of the activity of certain enzymes such as xanthine oxidase.
3. Kidney stones
Kidney stones are crystal formations from concentrations of substances such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid. They are not responsible for permanent damage but usually present significant pain pictures.
You should know: In this case, allopurinol is prescribed to reduce uric acid levels in both urine and blood. Doses of 200 to 300 mg orally are applied. (3)
Allopurinol Side Effects
The inappropriate use of allopurinol Can Produce Side Effectsor adverse effects, which affect our health and quality of life. They will be mentioned below for your contemplation and identification:
- Maculopapular skin rash (rash that does not rise above the surface of the skin).
- Hypersensitivity and liver or kidney damage.
- Fever, nausea and hypertension.
- Increases anticoagulant activity, in some cases it should be monitored.
Important: Allopurinol is a controlled administration medication, so it is important that it is indicated by a medical professionaltag. Do not self-medicate.
Allopurinol Contraindications
The Existing contraindications to the consumption of this type of medication will be mentioned below for your knowledge and contemplation:
- Hypersensitivity or allergy to allopurinol or any excipient present.
- It is not recommended to administer to patients with skin hypersensitivity.
- It should not be administered to children.
- Treatments should not be restarted after having presented some type of reaction.
- Its use is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation.
- It should be used with caution if there is any kidney problem.
To highlight: Before starting treatment with allopurinol, it is advisable to notify the doctor about your health history.
Key Findings
- Allopurinol is a medication used in patients with elevated uric acid levels.
- It is a delicate medication, so allopurinol doses must be taken care of and adverse reactions immediately recognized to take measures and reduce risks or alterations.
- It is a drug that reduces gout attacks after six months of control.
- The use of allopurinol in patients with renal insufficiency is not recommended, due to its active principle and method of action.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.