Zyloprim

Other Names: Allopurinol

Commonly Prescribed for: Zyloprim is primarily used as a drug to combat the effects of gout, joint destruction and uric acid stones. Zyloprim is also used in increased levels of uric acid caused by cancer treatment.

How to take it: Zyloprim comes in tablet form which should be taken once daily if your condition is mild. Dosage can range from 200-300mg per day for those who suffer from a mild and less serious form of gout to 400-600mg per day for patients in a worse condition. In the case of the latter then the dosage should be divided up so that it is taken twice daily instead of once.

How it Works: Gout appears when there is high levels of uric acid in your body, Zyloprim helps to reduce these levels. It contains a chemical known as Xanthine Oxidase that is the last form that a purine, a chemical that occurs naturally when cells die, takes before it is converted into uric acid. Zyloprim makes sure this purine is never transformed into uric acid and instead changes it into a harmless and undamaging form that will be passed through your body.

Some Side Effects: Side effects are possible when on a course of the drug Zyloprim. A skin reaction is the most common form of side effect associated with Zyloprim. It is recommended that you stop the drug straight away if a rash develops as it is possible that it can turn serious or severe. Fever and jaundice are also side effects that can be linked to this drug. In all cases you should seek medical help as soon as possible.