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Allopurinol

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Allopurinol is used to prevent the recurrence of uric acid stones. The medicine works by decreasing the amount of uric acid in the body. This medication has also been recommended as an alternative treatment for Leishmaniasis in dogs.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. Read the label carefully.
• Give this medication 1 hour after meals, unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.
• Have water available for your pet to drink.
• If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential Side Effects

• Adverse effects in dogs are uncommon.
• Notify your veterinarian if your pet develops a rash, becomes very tired or ill.
• The drug should be used with caution in dogs with decreased kidney function.
• Notify your veterinarian if side effects are noted and they are troublesome.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible Drug Interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with allopurinol: cyclosphosphamide, probenecid, sulfinpyrazone, methionine, ammonium chloride, amoxicillin, hetacillin, ampicillin, azathioprine, mercaptopurine, furosemide, thiazides, diazoxide, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, warfarin, aminophyllin, and theophyllin.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.