Allopurinol: What It Is and When You Need It
If you’ve been told you have gout or high uric acid, chances are your doctor mentioned allopurinol. It’s a pill that helps lower the amount of uric acid your body makes, which can stop painful attacks and protect your joints. Most people take it every day, not just when they feel pain, because steady use keeps levels down over time.
How Allopurinol Works
Allopurinol blocks an enzyme called xanthine oxidase. That enzyme normally turns purines – tiny bits of food and body waste – into uric acid. By stopping the enzyme, less uric acid is produced, so crystals can’t form in your joints. Think of it like turning down a faucet instead of trying to mop up water after it spills.
Dosage & Safety Tips
The starting dose for most adults is 100 mg once a day. Doctors may raise the amount slowly, sometimes up to 300 mg daily, depending on blood test results. Take the pill with food or water – it doesn’t matter much, just be consistent.
Before you start, tell your doctor about any kidney problems, liver issues, or if you’re pregnant. Allopurinol stays in the body longer when kidneys aren’t working well, so doses may need adjusting. Also, avoid starting allopurinol during an acute gout flare; it can make the pain worse at first.
Common side effects are mild: rash, nausea, or headache. If you notice a serious skin reaction – red spots that spread quickly or blisters – stop the medication and seek help right away. Some people feel dizzy or have joint pain when they first begin; most of these symptoms fade after a week.
Allopurinol can interact with several drugs, especially azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and some antibiotics like amoxicillin‑clavulanate. Always give your pharmacist the full list of meds you’re on to avoid surprises.
Buying Allopurinol Online in Canada
If you need a refill or want to shop around for price, Canadian online pharmacies can be handy. Look for sites that require a prescription, show a physical address in Canada, and have clear contact info. Check reviews and make sure the pharmacy is licensed by the College of Pharmacists of Ontario or another provincial board.
Compare prices, but don’t pick the cheapest option if the site looks sketchy. A reputable online store will protect your personal data and ship in discreet packaging. Many Canadian pharmacies also offer automatic refills, which can save you trips to the doctor’s office.
Quick FAQ
Can I take allopurinol with alcohol? Moderate drinking isn’t a big problem, but heavy binge drinking may raise uric acid again and stress your liver.
How long does it take to feel better? You won’t feel immediate relief; the drug works over weeks. Your doctor will monitor blood levels every few months.
Do I need regular blood tests? Yes – at least once after starting or changing the dose, then yearly if everything stays stable.
Allopurinol is a solid tool for keeping gout under control when you use it right. Stick to your doctor’s dosing plan, watch for side effects, and choose a trustworthy Canadian pharmacy for refills. With those steps, you can keep uric acid low and stay out of painful flare‑ups.
