What is Allopurinol?
Allopurinol is the active ingredient within Zyloprim. It is a medication that falls in line with Medicare’s Tier 1, which are usually inexpensive generics. But what is Zyloprim exactly? Allopurinol is a medication that is used to treat gout and certain types of kidney stones. It is also used to prevent uric acid levels in people that are receiving chemotherapy for cancer. When taken, this medication is put to work by reducing the amount of uric acids that are made by the body, since it is these increased uric acid levels that cause the gout and the kidney problems in the first place. This medication comes in three different strengths which are 100mg, 200mg, and 300mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any inquiries in general, feel free to give us a call at our toll free number 1-877-385-8998.
How long does it take for Allopurinol to lower uric acid levels?
Once you begin taking this medication, it can take up to 2 to 3 months to become fully effective. Although you should continue to keep taking this medication, regardless of how you are feeling. Keep in mind that during the first few weeks your blood levels of uric acid may rise for a short while before they fall again.
What are the side effects of Allopurinol?
Some of the more common side effects of this medication include the following; Skin rash, diarrhea, nausea, changes in your liver function test results, and gout flare-up (if you had gout). Keep in mind that these are not all of the side effects listed for this medication, and if you are experiencing any of these be sure to inform your doctor if they persist or worsen.
How to take Allopurinol?
This medication is taken by mouth and normally taken once a day and generally after a meal to reduce any kind of upset stomach you may encounter. It is usually encouraged to drink a full glass of water with each dose and at least 8 more glass of fluid within the day. As to how much water you should intake is something your doctor will discuss with you when prescribing this medication.