Allopurinol is a drug
administered orally or intravenously responsible for treating
chronic gout arthritis. Its major metabolite alloxanthine is long
acting and non competitive inhibitor-primarily responsible for uric
acid synthesis inhibition.
It is also used for treating secondary hyperuricaemia, due to
cancer chemotherapy, ridiation & thiazides or drugs, prevention
of uric acid nephropathy.
The drug is available in tablet form and each (white) one contains
100 mg allopurinol and other inactive ingredients including lactose,
magnesium stearate, potato starch, and povidone. Each peach colored
tablet contains 300 mg allopurinol and other inactive ingredients
including corn starch, FD&C Yellow No. 6 Lake, lactose,
magnesium stearate, and povidone.
Brand Name: Progout, Zyloprim, Allohexal, Zyloric
Iupac Name: 3,5,7,8-tetrazabicyclo[4.3.0]
nona-3,5,9-trien-2-one
Working
This drug acts by inhibiting uric acid production in the body. It
will however not relieve a gout attack that has already started and
does not cure gout, but helps prevent gout attacks. The drug works
only after regularly use for a few months.
The drug is widely used for preventing or treating other medical
problems that may occur if too much uric acid is present in the
body. eg: certain kidney problems or kidney stones.
Dosage
Initially 100-200 mg daily . Maintain 200-600 mg daily
Contra- Indications: Children, acute gout
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in
different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are
often associated with the drug:
- Rashes
- Fever
- Malaise
- Headache
- Nausea
- Gastric irritation
- Liver damage
Pregnant women should not use the drug, while lactating mothers
can use the drug with caution and under the guidance of a medical
practitioner. In case of elderly people, reduced may be necessary.
Disclaimer: The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
