Allopurinol is an oral and IV medication used to decrease hyperuricemia. It is specifically used to prevent gout, prevent specific types of kidney stones and for chemotherapy-induced hyperuricemia.
Common side effects, when taken orally, include itchiness and rash.
Common side effects, when taken IV, include vomiting and kidney problems. While not recommended historically, starting allopurinol during an attack of gout appears to be safe. In those already on the medication, it should be continued even during an acute gout attack. While use during pregnancy does not appear to result in harm, this use has not been well studied. Allopurinol is in the xanthine oxidase inhibitor family of medications.
Synonyms
Zyloprim