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Stones tend to be multiple and tend to recur even after spontaneous passage or surgical removal.
Therefore, effective prevention depends on determining the specific cause of stone formation. The workup may include several blood tests, and the individual may be asked to collect 24 hour urine samples. Individuals with these conditions account for about two-thirds of those with calcium stone disease. In some cases, diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide may be prescribed to decrease the excretion of calcium. Individuals with hypercalciuria who also have hyperuricosuria may be treated with a drug called allopurinol.