Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking allopurinol as follows:
- Some patients can present with symptoms of angioneurotic edema, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
- Allopurinol intake can result in dizziness and episodes of altered levels of consciousness, which can contribute to accidents and falls. These episodes can be self-limiting and resolve over time. One should stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until they are used to the side effects caused by the allopurinol. Try changing the positions very slowly, as sudden change of positions can make the dizzy episodes more likely. Report any continuing episodes of dizziness to your physician, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
- Allopurinol has potential to induce bone marrow suppression or exacerbate any history of the same, thus resulting in reduced production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Bone marrow suppression can be a more common finding, if allopurinol is administered along with any other medication, with potential to induce the same. Observe compliance with periodical labs ordered for evaluation of complete blood count. Watch out for signs and symptoms of anemia, such as, pallor and increased shortness of breath. Avoid getting in contact with any source of infection, as the low white blood cell count secondary to allopurinol intake, can increase the susceptibility and risk for infection. Report any recurrent infections and episodes of easy bruising and bleeding to your physician.
- Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication.
