Jakarta –
Allopurinol is a common drug given to people with high uric acid. However, the rules for taking allopurinol must be observed because this is a hard drug that cannot be taken carelessly and must be prescribed by a doctor.
Allopurinol is included in the class of xanthine oxidase inhibitors which function to reduce high uric acid levels and kidney stones. In addition, this drug is also given to cancer patients to avoid the side effects of chemotherapy, namely the buildup of uric acid from dead cancer cells.
Even though it is intended to maintain joint strength, this drug is not recommended for people with sudden gout attacks. This is because allopurinol cannot be used to relieve acute pain.
Like other drugs, allopurinol also has side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness. Therefore, it is not recommended to consume it before driving or doing activities that require high concentration.
Rules for Taking Allopurinol
The rules for taking allopurinol that must be remembered are that it is recommended to be consumed after eating on a regular schedule. This drug should also not stop taking it even though the patient’s condition has improved, except with the doctor’s permission.
To get maximum results, it generally takes about 2-6 weeks for the benefits of allopurinol to be more significant. However, if you are required to consume it for a long time, it is advisable to routinely do blood tests to see the development of liver and kidney function.
Quoted from the Monthly Index of Medical Specialties (MIMS), here are the rules for taking allopurinol according to the diagnosis and age of the patient:
1. Gout
Adult: The dose is 100 mg per day and increased gradually, depending on the severity of the patient. However, the maximum daily dose is only 900 mg.
- Mild: 100-200 mg daily
- Moderately severe: 300-600 mg daily
- Weight: 700-900 mg daily
Children under 15 years: 10-20 mg per day. While the maximum daily dose is 400 mg.
2. Kidney Stones
Adult: 200-300 mg daily in a single dose or in 2-3 divided doses.
3. Hyperuricemia Due to Chemotherapy
Adult (inject): 200-400 mg/m2 as a single infusion daily or equally divided at 6, 8, or 12 hr intervals. It is given 1-2 days before chemotherapy, with a maximum daily dose of 600 mg.
Adult (tablet): 600-800 mg daily in divided doses for 2-3 days before cancer treatment.
Children (injectable): 200 mg/m2 as a single infusion daily or equally divided at 6, 8, or 12 hr intervals. This is given for 24-48 hours before undergoing chemotherapy.
Children (tablets)
- Children under six years: 150 mg per day
- Children under 6-10 years: 300 mg per day
- Children under 15 years: 10-20 mg/kg per day. The maximum daily dose is 400 mg.
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