Allopurinol

What is Allopurinol?

Allopurinol is used to prevent urate bladder stones. It reduces the production of uric acid in your pet's body. Allopurinol is available in 100 mg and 300 mg scored tablets for easy dosing. This medication is especially helpful for dog breeds prone to blood flow abnormalities. Allopurinol is sold per tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For:

Dogs

Benefits:

• Prevents recurrent urate bladder stones
• Especially good for breeds prone to blood flow abnormalities
• Sold per tablet

How does Allopurinol work?

Allopurinol belongs to a class of drugs called xanthine oxidase inhibitors which prevent the accumulation of uric acid. If uric acid accumulates in the body, crystals form in the urine which may congregate to produce kidney or bladder stones.

Cautions:

Allopurinol should be given with meals. It should not be given to pregnant or nursing animals and should not be used in puppies.

Brand Name:

Zyloprim (GlaxoSmithKline)

Generic Name:

Allopurinol

What is the most important thing I should know about allopurinol?

Allopurinol reduces the production of uric acid in the body. Allopurinol helps prevent the formation of bladder stones in dogs that are caused by high levels of uric acid. Allopurinol may also be used for purposes other than those listed here. Allopurinol is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs. Allopurinol is available as 100 mg and 300 mg scored tablets. Allopurinol may cause drowsiness

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving allopurinol to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver or kidney disease or if the pet is pregnant or lactating. Inform your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements your pet may be taking while receiving Allopurinol.

How should allopurinol be given?

The usual initial dose for dogs is 5 mg/lb given with food once a day. Water should be kept available for the pet to drink. Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Allopurinol should be given with food to lessen stomach upset. Allopurinol should be given with plenty of water. If you do not understand the directions ask your pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store allopurinol at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of allopurinol?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on allopurinol?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of allopurinol overdose are not known.

What are the potential side effects of allopurinol?

Allopurinol may cause drowsiness. If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving allopurinol and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; hives), blood in the urine or pain when urinating, a rash, eye irritation, fever, chills or joint aches or severe nausea or vomiting. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving allopurinol and talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences upset stomach or diarrhea, dizziness or drowsiness or an acute attack of arthritis. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What should I avoid while giving allopurinol to my pet?

Avoid giving allopurinol to your pet on an empty stomach.

What other drugs will affect allopurinol?

Ampicillin or amoxicillin may increase the risk that a rash may develop. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given a thiazide diuretic, azathioprine, drugs used to treat cancer, cyclosporine, warfarin or theophylline. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with allopurinol. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.