Allopurinol
Bones, joints, and goutAlso known as Zyloprim
Allopurinol prevents gout by lowering the uric acid that forms the needle-like crystals behind those brutal attacks. Two honest things to understand: it does NOT treat an attack that's already happening, and starting it can actually trigger a brief flare as old crystals dissolve — your doctor often covers this with another medicine at first. If a flare hits, keep taking your allopurinol. Stopping and restarting only makes things worse.
How to take it
When
Once a day for most people, at the same time. Take it every day, flare or no flare.
Food
Take it after a meal to be gentle on your stomach, and drink plenty of water through the day.
Avoid
Don't stop during a gout flare — keep taking it and treat the flare separately.
Good to know
Expect blood tests early on to check your levels and your liver and kidneys.
Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for the next dose — then skip the missed one. Never double up.
Common side effects
- Mild rash (but see the red flags — any rash deserves attention)
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Drowsiness
- A gout flare when first starting
- Diarrhea
Call a doctor if
- ANY spreading rash — stop the medicine and call immediately (rare but life-threatening skin reactions)
- Fever, blisters, or peeling skin — get help now
- Yellowing skin or eyes, or dark urine — call the doctor
- Painful urination or blood in the urine — call the doctor