Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking allopurinol as follows:
- Allopurinol is significantly metabolized in the liver and excreted in urine, by the kidneys. If liver function is deficient, metabolism of allopurinol could be slowed down. Slowing down of the drug metabolism can result in increased risk for compromised therapeutic benefits and toxicity with the medication. Allopurinol use can result in hepatic damage and compromised liver function, consequently leading to mild right upper quadrant pain in the abdomen, poor digestion, and loss of appetite. Individuals can also present symptoms of jaundice, such as, yellowing of skin and white of the eyes, and dark colored urine, secondary to increased bilirubin pigment, due to liver damage and severely affected liver function. Allopurinol is significantly eliminated in urine, by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease and diminished renal function cannot eliminate allopurinol from their body normally, which allows the medication to be in the blood stream longer, thus increasing the risk for side-effects and toxicity with the medication. Observe compliance with periodical labs ordered for evaluation of hepatic and renal functions.
- Observe compliance with recommendation on fluid intake. Compliance with atleast 2.5 liters of water/fluid intake every day can help eliminate uric acid from the body and prevent deposition of uric acid crystals in the body tissues, thus complementing therapeutic benefit of allopurinol intake. If you are placed on any fluid limitations, consult your doctor for any further suggestions.
- Take allopurinol dose at the same time, every day, to avoid forgetting the intake of medication.
- Do not change the dose on this medication without consulting your doctor.
- Taking allopurinol after having a meal or a snack, can help avoid unpleasant gastrointestinal side-effects of allopurinol intake, such as, nausea and vomiting, dyspepsia, and stomach upset.
- Watch closely for development of any severe skin rashes and itching. Report the rash to your physician immediately for any change in plan of care to be considered.
