Allopurinol
With moderationAllopurinol is a prescription medication used to lower uric acid and prevent gout flares. It is not a food, so dosing must come from a doctor.
- Lowers uric acid production by inhibiting xanthine oxidase
- Helps prevent future gout attacks and tophi when taken long term
- Often used when diet alone does not control uric acid levels
- Can cause rash or, rarely, serious skin reactions, especially early in treatment
- Dose must be adjusted for kidney function; unsuitable doses can cause harm
- Can interact with drugs such as azathioprine and some blood thinners
Overview
Allopurinol is a prescription medicine, not a food or drink. It is one of the most common treatments for long-term control of high uric acid and recurrent gout [1].
How It Works
Allopurinol blocks xanthine oxidase, the enzyme that converts purines into uric acid. Lower production leads to lower blood uric acid, which allows existing crystals to dissolve over time and reduces flare frequency [1][2].
Important Considerations
Doctors usually start at a low dose and increase gradually while monitoring uric acid and kidney function. Flares can occur during the first months of treatment, so many people also take a short course of anti-inflammatory medicine or colchicine. Serious skin reactions are rare but require stopping the drug and seeking urgent care. People of Asian ancestry, particularly those carrying the HLA-B*58:01 gene variant, have a higher risk of severe reactions and may need genetic screening first [2].
Diet and Lifestyle
Allopurinol works best alongside lifestyle changes. Limiting alcohol, especially beer, reducing fructose-sweetened drinks, and staying well hydrated all support uric acid control. Medication does not replace these habits, and it should never be stopped or changed without medical advice.
AI-researched information — not medical advice. Ask a qualified clinician before changing your diet or treatment.