Allopurinol reduces how much uric acid the body produces. Over months this dissolves the crystals that cause gout, which prevents attacks and protects the joints and kidneys. It prevents gout rather than treating an attack in progress.

What Allopurinol Is Used For

Preventing recurrent gout attacks
Lowering high uric acid levels
Uric acid kidney stones
Protecting the kidneys during some cancer treatments

Common Side Effects

Skin rash
Nausea
More frequent gout attacks in the first weeks
Drowsiness

Precautions

Attacks can increase when treatment starts, which is expected and why a preventive medicine is often given alongside for the first months. Do not stop allopurinol during an attack unless told to. Any rash must be reported immediately, as a rare but serious skin reaction can occur. Drink plenty of water, and mention it if you take azathioprine or warfarin, as both interact.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.