Zyloprim
Generic Name: Allopurinol
What is Zyloprim?
Zyloprim is used to help treat the signs and symptoms of gout (severe and painful inflammation of the joints).It is also used to manage increased uric acid levels due to chemotherapy treatment in patients with leukemia and lymphoma, or in patients with kidney stones.
What is the most important information I should know about Zyloprim?
Zyloprim may cause serious and life-threatening allergic reactions. Your chances of experiencing an allergic reaction increase if you have kidney problems or if you are taking a medication that is called a thiazide-type diuretic (water pill). Stop using Zyloprim and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any type of rash, skin redness, painful urination, blood in the urine, irritation of the eyes, swelling of the lips, or mouth discoloration.Zyloprim may cause an increase in the frequency of your gout attacks when you first start taking it. After 2-6 weeks of taking Zyloprim, your attacks should become less frequent and severe.
Liver problems may occur; your doctor may monitor your liver function.
Zyloprim may cause drowsiness; caution should be taken during activities requiring alertness.
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney stones. Your doctor may monitor your kidney function while you are on therapy.
Bone marrow depression has occurred in patients taking Zyloprim, mostly in patients taking other agents that may cause this.
Who should not take Zyloprim?
Do not take Zyloprim if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zyloprim?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zyloprim. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you are taking medications such as dicumarol, sulfinpyrazone, mercaptopurine, azathioprine, ampicillin, amoxicillin, or a thiazide diuretic (water pill).What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Gout
Adults: The usual dose is 200-300 milligrams (mg) daily. For more severe gout, the usual dose is 400-600 mg daily.
Leukemia/Lymphoma
The usual dose is 600-800 mg a day for 2-3 days.
Increased Uric Acid Due to Certain Medical Conditions
Children 6-10 years: The usual dose is 300 mg a day.
Children ≤6 years: The usual dose is 150 mg a day.
Recurrent Kidney Stones
Adults: The usual dose is 200-300 mg daily.
How should I take Zyloprim?
Zyloprim may be taken in divided doses or as a single dose. Doses >300 mg should be taken in divided doses. Zyloprim should be taken at the same time every day, with or without food. Take it with a small meal if it upsets your stomach. Drink plenty of water while taking Zyloprim.What should I avoid while taking Zyloprim?
Avoid driving a car or operating heavy machinery until you know how Zyloprim will affect you. Also, avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Zyloprim.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zyloprim?
If Zyloprim is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zyloprim with the following: amoxicillin, ampicillin, azathioprine, chlorpropamide, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, certain cancer agents, dicumarol, mercaptopurine, thiazide-type diuretics, and tolbutamide.What are the possible side effects of Zyloprim?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: skin rash, diarrhea, nausea, increase of certain enzymes, increased acute (sudden) gout attacks
Can I receive Zyloprim if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Zyloprim during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Zyloprim?
If you miss a dose of Zyloprim, skip the dose you missed and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Zyloprim?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
