Zyloprim Consumer Information

Zyloprim

Generic Name: allopurinol (al oh PURE i nole)
Brand Names: Lopurin, Zyloprim

What is Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid in your body. Uric acid buildup can lead to gout or kidney stones.

Allopurinol is used to treat gout or kidney stones, and to decrease levels of uric acid in people who are receiving cancer treatment.

Allopurinol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

Allopurinol can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• diabetes;

• congestive heart failure;

• high blood pressure; or

• if you are receiving any chemotherapy.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take allopurinol.

How should I take Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Allopurinol can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of allopurinol is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

Avoid being near people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

Your doctor may recommend a special diet to help treat your condition. Follow your diet and medication routines very closely.

Zyloprim (allopurinol) side effects

• the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild;

• pain or bleeding when you urinate;

• urinating less than usual or not at all;

• fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;

• bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or

• seizure (convulsions).

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• dizziness or drowsiness;

• increased sweating; or

• joint pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Zyloprim (allopurinol)?

Before taking allopurinol, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• azathioprine (Imuran);

• chlorpropamide (Diabinese);

• cyclosporine (Gengraf, Sandimmune, Neoral);

• mercaptopurine (Purinethol);

• an antibiotic such as ampicillin (Principen, Omnipen, others) or amoxicillin (Amoxil, Augmentin, Trimox, Wymox);

• a blood thinner such as dicoumarol or warfarin (Coumadin); or

• a diuretic (water pill).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with allopurinol. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.