It may take 2-6 weeks to see the benefit. It is used to prevent arthritis and kidney problems caused by gout. It prevents high blood levels of uric acid. This occurs in patients being treated for cancer. Other uses include treatment of kidney stones and prevention of side effects due to fluorouracil.
Allopurinol decreases production of uric acid.
Too much uric acid causes gout attacks, arthritis, and kidney problems. Take with or without food. Take with food if this medicine causes an upset stomach. Drink 10-12 glasses of liquid every day unless told to drink less liquid by healthcare provider. Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid.