Zyloric

How does it work?

Zyloric tablets contain the active ingredient allopurinol, which is a type of medicine called a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. (NB. Allopurinol tablets are also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine allopurinol.) Allopurinol is used to lower uric acid levels in the body.

Uric acid is produced by an enzyme in the body called xanthine oxidase. Allopurinol inhibits the action of this enzyme and as a result lowers uric acid levels.

The main use of allopurinol is in preventing gout, which is caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is these cystals that cause the characteristic pain and inflammation of gout. By lowering the production of uric acid, flare-ups of gout can be prevented.

Allopurinol is used for the long term prevention of gout and not for immediate treatment of gout flare-ups. Other medicines are used for the rapid relief of gout symptoms.

A build up of uric acid is also responsible for certain types of kidney disease and some types of kidney stone. In the same way that allopurinol prevents gout, it can also prevent the formation of new kidney stones. NB. There are various different types of kidney stones, and allopurinol is only effective against certain types.

Certain types of cancer and treatments for cancer can raise uric acid levels. As this could potentially cause kidney problems, allopurinol is sometimes used to prevent this.

What is it used for?

Long-term prevention of gout

Kidney stones

Lesch-Nyhan syndrome (a hereditary enzyme disorder resulting in overproduction of uric acid)

Reducing the formation of uric acid when this is a predictable clinical risk, for example when treating certain types of cancer

Warning!

Treatment with allopurinol should not be started during an acute attack of gout, as it could initially worsen the attack. Allopurinol should not be started until the attack has completely subsided. When you start treatment your doctor should normally prescribe you a suitable anti-inflammatory medicine, or colchicine, for at least the first month, as allopurinol may cause an attack of gout in the early stages of treatment. If you get an attack of gout after you have started treatment with allopurinol you should keep taking it while the attack is treated with a suitable anti-inflammatory medicine.

It is important to drink plenty of fluids whilst being treated with this medicine.

If you get a skin rash or other signs of allergic reaction to this medicine you should stop taking it and consult your doctor immediately.

Use with caution in

Elderly people

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Not to be used in

Allergy to any ingredient

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk, however the effects on the nursing infant are unknown. Seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Label warnings

Do not stop taking this medication except on your doctor's advice.

Take this medication with or after food.

This medication is to be taken with plenty of water.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved