Zyloprim, with the generic name of Allopurinol, works by repressing the production of uric acid in the body.
Zyloprim Indications

Zyloprim is mostly prescribed to patients suffering from or prone to:
Gout
Increased levels of uric acid caused by cancer treatments
Kidney stones caused by high levels of uric acid
Zyloprim Warnings/Precautions

Have a talk with your physician before deciding to take Zyloprim especially if you have kidney or liver disease. You may be given a lower dosage or may need to undergo specific monitoring during the treatment period.

Zyloprim belongs to a class of drugs called FDA Pregnancy Category C. This entails that its effects to an unborn fetus is not certain. It is therefore suggested to see your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this drug.

Nursing mothers are also advised to consult their doctor prior to taking Zyloprim as this passes into breast milk and may be unsafe for the breastfeeding baby.
Zyloprim Intake Instructions

Zyloprim must be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. If there is any instruction in the label that appears unclear to you, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Each dose is taken with a full glass of water on a full stomach. To lessen the chance of kidney stone formations, it is recommended to drink 8 to 10 full glasses (8-ounce glasses) of fluid a day.
Zyloprim Missed Dose

Unless directed by your doctor, Zyloprim must not be double dosed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember as long as it is not almost time for the next scheduled dose. Otherwise, forego missed dose and proceed with the next one.
Zyloprim Overdose

If symptoms of over dosage are suspected, consult your doctor for the proper medical action.
Zyloprim Side Effects

Stop usage of Zyloprim and seek medical attention if you experience any of the following adverse conditions:
Allergic reactions such as difficulty in breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or hives
Blood in the urine or painful urination
Rashes
Eye irritation
Fever, chills, or joint aches
Severe nausea or vomi ting

Minor side effects that are more likely to occur include:
Upset stomach or diarrhea
Headache, dizziness or drowsiness
Acute attack of Gouty Arthritis

In any of the cases mentioned above, continue use of Zyloprim and inform your doctor. For other side effects not listed that are particularly causing discomfort or pain, tell your doctor right away.

How should I take this medicine?
Take allopurinol tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. If allopurinol upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with allopurinol?
•aluminum hydroxide
•amoxicillin or ampicillin
•azathioprine
•certain medicines used to treat gout
•certain types of water pills (diuretics)
•chlorpropamide
•cyclosporine
•mercaptopurine
•theophylline
•warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking allopurinol?
Side effects to allopurinol are rare but some can be serious. Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•any type of skin rash or itching
•any signs of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling or irritation of the eyes, or swelling of the lips and mouth
•blood in urine
•muscle aches or pains
•pain or difficulty passing urine, reduced amount of urine
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•sore throat, fever, or chills

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•diarrhea
•headache
•indigestion
•loss of appetite
•nausea, vomiting
•nose bleeds
•stomach pain or cramps