Educational Medication GuideRxClass: Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitor

Allopurinol

Generic Name: Allopurinol

Common Brand Names: Zyloprim

Dosage Form:Tablet

Route:Oral

Pregnancy Category:C

Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Uses & Medical Indications

Prevent gout attacks

Medical Conditions Treated:

Gout, hyperuricemia

Work Mechanism & Pharmacology

How It Works

Patient Overview of Work Mechanism

Allopurinol works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.

Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)

Allopurinol exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.

Primary TargetAllopurinol

Therapeutic FamilyAntigout

Administration RouteOral

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

100-300 mg daily

Pediatric Dosage

N/A

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Start low, adjust for renal function

Maximum Dose Limit

800 mg/day

Renal Impairment:

Reduce dose based on CrCl

Hepatic Impairment:

Use with caution

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Rash, nausea

Serious Adverse Reactions

Severe skin reactions, hepatotoxicity

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity

Important Warnings & Precautions:

Discontinue at first sign of rash

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Azathioprine, Mercaptopurine

Food & Dietary Interactions:

N/A

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

Limit, can increase uric acid

Identified Clinical Drug Interactions for Allopurinol:

Allopurinol + AzathioprineMajor Interaction

Severe Bone Marrow Aplasia & Fatal Leukopenia

Check in Tool →

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Use if benefit outweighs risk

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Compatible

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Drink plenty of fluids

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

Serum uric acid

Emergency Medical Warning

When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention

Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.

Emergency Safety Protocol: If an intentional or accidental overdose is suspected, contact your regional Poison Control Center or emergency services immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless strictly advised by emergency healthcare personnel.

Educational Sources & References

Content for Allopurinol was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:

Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines

Published by: Medi Info Hub TeamLast Updated: 10/19/2026

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.