Allopurinol
Allopurinol (Zyloprim) is the only product on this shelf, available in 100 mg and 300 mg tablets for preventing gout flares and lowering uric acid during cancer therapy.
Key points
- Allopurinol blocks xanthine oxidase, the enzyme that converts hypoxanthine to xanthine and then to uric acid, cutting the body’s uric acid production at its source.
- The Zyloprim label warns that a skin rash may be followed by more severe hypersensitivity reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, generalised vasculitis, irreversible liver damage and, on rare occasions, death.
- NICE lists allopurinol as a first-line option for starting long-term, treat-to-target urate-lowering therapy in gout.
How does Allopurinol work?
By reducing uric acid at the enzyme level, allopurinol allows existing uric acid crystals to dissolve over time, which is what separates long-term gouty arthritis prevention from treating a single flare. NICE describes gout as a lifelong condition where sustained urate-lowering therapy eliminates crystals, shrinks tophi and protects joints from permanent damage. The same mechanism manages hyperuricaemia that spikes when tumour cells break down during cancer treatment, before the kidneys are overwhelmed. Zyloprim sits within Gout Treatment as the brand-name version of allopurinol.
Further reading
What is allopurinol used for?
Allopurinol is used for gouty arthritis and hyperuricaemia. It helps prevent gout flares and lowers uric acid during cancer therapy.
How does allopurinol lower uric acid?
Allopurinol blocks xanthine oxidase, the enzyme that converts hypoxanthine to xanthine and then to uric acid. By reducing uric acid production, it allows existing uric acid crystals to dissolve over time.
How long does allopurinol take to work?
Allopurinol usually takes 1 to 2 weeks to show its full effect.
What are the side effects of allopurinol?
Common side effects include nausea, headache and a mild skin rash. Other side effects can include diarrhoea, elevated liver enzymes and an acute gout flare when starting. Serious side effects include allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome and severe bone marrow suppression, which need immediate medical attention, so speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you notice a rash or any other worrying symptoms.
Can allopurinol be taken with other medicines?
You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking allopurinol with other medicines, as it interacts with azathioprine, mercaptopurine and warfarin.
What allopurinol products are available?
On Direct Meds, allopurinol comes as Zyloprim. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does allopurinol cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is allopurinol available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order allopurinol. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver allopurinol to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →