Side Effects of Allopurinol
Allopurinol is a medication commonly prescribed to treat gout and kidney stones by lowering uric acid levels in the body. While it is effective in managing these conditions, it can lead to a range of side effects, from mild to severe.
Common Side Effects:
- Skin Rash:
- Skin rash is a common side effect of allopurinol, ranging from mild irritation to severe. It can signal a serious reaction, so it should be reported to a doctor immediately.
- Gastrointestinal Issues:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are frequently reported, particularly when first starting the medication.
- Drowsiness:
- Some individuals experience drowsiness or fatigue while on allopurinol.
- Changes in Taste:
- Altered sense of taste is another possible side effect.
- Headache:
- Headaches may occur during treatment, especially early on.
Serious Side Effects:
- Severe Skin Reactions:
- Allopurinol has been associated with rare but serious hypersensitivity reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can cause severe rash, blisters, and peeling skin. This requires immediate medical attention.
- Liver and Kidney Damage:
- In rare cases, allopurinol can lead to liver and kidney problems, which can manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and upper abdominal pain.
- Blood Disorders:
- Allopurinol may cause changes in blood cell counts, such as anemia, leukopenia (low white blood cell count), or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), resulting in fatigue, easy bruising, or frequent infections.
- Gout Flare-Ups:
- When starting allopurinol, it may initially cause a gout flare-up. This happens because the medication lowers uric acid levels, which can temporarily cause uric acid crystals to form.
- Severe Allergic Reactions:
- Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical attention.
Long-Term Use Risks:
- Kidney Function:
- Long-term use of allopurinol can strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended.
- Liver Enzyme Changes:
- Regular liver function tests are necessary for those on long-term allopurinol therapy to monitor for potential liver damage.
Who Should Avoid Allopurinol?
- Individuals with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to allopurinol.
- Those with kidney disease or liver dysfunction should use it cautiously under medical supervision.
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