ZYLOPRIM (ALLOPURINOL)

Zyloprim Helps Relieve Inflammation in Your Joints

Zyloprim or the generic alternative called Allopurinol may be prescribed by your doctor to treat gouty arthritis. This is a painful condition that causes inflammation in one or more of your joints due to a buildup of uric acid in your blood that can buildup in your joints and calcify. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Zyloprim Works to Prevent Uric Acid Production

Normally, uric acid dissolves in your blood, gets processed through your kidneys, and exits your body through your urine. If your kidneys are unable to clear enough uric acid, the levels rise in your blood and can cause hyperuricemia. This is not a disease but if it continues for a long time, crystals can form and be deposited in your joints and cause gouty arthritis, or simply gout.

Zyloprim works by preventing the production of uric acid by blocking a certain enzyme (xanthine oxidase) that converts purines (proteins) into uric acid. The levels of uric acid should begin to drop within 2 to 3 days after taking Zyloprim and your symptoms of joint pain, inflammation, redness, and tender to the touch will diminish and allow you to carry on will your tasks.

Conditions Treated by Zyloprim

Uric acid crystals can also be deposited in your kidneys and become large stones that cause a great deal of pain. This may damage your kidney permanently by forming a blockage that stops your kidney’s ability to remove waste and cause infection, or the crystals rough edges can scar your kidneys and lead to chronic kidney disease or failure. This situation may be avoided by limiting alcohol, meat, and especially seafood such as shrimp and lobster that can increase your uric acid level. Drinking lots of water, lose some weight, and eat more whole grains, fruit, and veggies to reduce your risk of gout.

Before You Take Zyloprim

Make sure your doctor is aware of other medical conditions and allergies you have that could interfere with taking Zyloprim. Supply a list of any over-the-counter and Rx drugs you currently take or use and include herbal preparations and dietary or vitamin supplements as one or more could affect how Zyloprim works in your body or change its effectiveness.

Important Info About Zyloprim

You should not take Zyloprim if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding as Zyloprim may cause harm to your unborn baby or nursing infant. All medications should be stored safely out of children’s reach and never share meds with anyone. Consult with your doctor before starting or stopping any medications as this may affect how Zyloprim works in your body or increases your risk of an adverse outcome.

Possible Side Effects of Zyloprim

• Change in sense of taste
• Joint stiffness or swelling
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Nausea