Allopurinol is considered very safe to take for a long period of time. There are unlikely to be any long-term effects. What will happen if I stop taking it? If you stop allopurinol treatment suddenly, there is a high risk that gout may get worse or you will get serious side effects.

How long can you take allopurinol?

Adults and children 11 years of age and older—600 to 800 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in divided doses for 2 to 3 days. Children 6 to 10 years of age—300 mg per day, taken once a day for 2 to 3 days. Children younger than 6 years of age—150 mg per day, taken once a day for 2 to 3 days.

Should I take allopurinol in the morning or at night?

It will also help you remember when to take it. Allopurinol is usually taken once daily. However, if your dose is more than 300 mg, your doctor may advise you to take your medicine twice a day. Then, it should be taken morning and night, after breakfast and dinner.

Is allopurinol safe in elderly?

Uricosuric drugs are poorly tolerated and the frequent presence of renal impairment in the elderly renders these drugs ineffective. Allopurinol is the urate-lowering drug of choice, but its use in the aged is associated with an increased incidence of both cutaneous and severe hypersensitivity reactions.

Is there an alternative to allopurinol?

Febuxostat, a novel nonpurine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase, is a potential alternative to allopurinol for patients with hyperuricemia and gout.

What is the best time of day to take allopurinol?

Allopurinol comes in tablet form. It is usually taken one or more times per day, depending on the dose. It is usually best to take allopurinol just after a meal, as this may decrease stomach upset. For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.

When should I take allopurinol?

You should take allopurinol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Allopurinol is usually taken once or twice daily, after meals. If you are taking allopurinol for gout, you will usually start with a low dose and slowly increase the dosage over the first week.

Does allopurinol cause weight loss?

If you experience any unanticipated reaction while taking allopurinol, contact your doctor immediately. Allopurinol would be more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain. Patients report weight loss, nausea and loss of appetite with allopurinol.