Allopurinol-BC

Generic Name: Allopurinol
Product Name: Allopurinol-BC

Indication

Allopurinol is used in the following conditions:

• Treatment and long term control of gout
• Certain types of kidney stones
• Kidney disease caused by increased uric acid levels in the urine
• In patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy

Action

Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid. If uric acid is present in the body in excessive levels it can produce gout and kidney disease. Certain drugs given in chemotherapy can also increase uric acid levels.

Dose advice

Adults:

• The initial recommended dose is 100 mg once a day
• This dose may be increased by 100 mg per day each month depending on how the patient responds to treatment
• The usual dose ranges from 100-300 mg per dayPatients with kidney disease may require different doses

Patients undergoing chemotherapy:

• Adults: 600-800 mg per day given for 2-3 days before chemotherapy commences. The dose may then be reduced depending on how the patient responds to treatment.

Children:

• 10-20 mg/kg per day given as one or two divided doses. A maximum dose of 600 mg per day should not be exceeded.

Common side effects

• Rash
• Itching of skin

Uncommon side effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Taste disturbances
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Aching joints

For further information talk to your doctor.