Nurse Teaching Topic: Indications for Allopurinol Use

Uric acid produced in the body is usually completely excreted in the urine. Uric acid deposition in the body tissues can happen either due to an excess of uric acid production or reduced excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, thus precipitating a favorable environment for development of gout and uric acid renal stones. Conditions causing excessive uric acid production:

1. Individuals with excessive consumption of food items rich in purines, such as seafood, organ meat, bacon, beef, soft drinks, and beer, can be at risk for increased production of uric acid in the body with consequent crystallization and deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints and tissues.
2. Patients receiving cancer chemotherapy and individuals with psoriasis can be at risk for increased production of uric acid, secondary to excessive cell destruction, consequent increased protein recycling and purine production, and increased cell turnover in the body.

Conditions causing reduced excretion of uric acid from the body:

1. Individuals with compromised renal function can be at risk for uric acid deposition in the body, as the kidneys are not functioning optimally to eliminate all the uric acid produced.
2. Individuals with excessive use of diuretic medications can be at risk for uric acid deposition in the body, as they form very dilute urine with excessive water content.

Allopurinol is a medication used to reduce the production of uric acid in the body and can be used in all the above mentioned and other states with an imbalance between uric acid production and excretion in the urine. Reduced uric acid production contributes to reduced tissue deposition of uric acid crystals and prevents development of gouty arthritis and uric acid renal stones.