Allopurinol Drug Class Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the method of action for Allopurinol?

It inhibits the production of uric acid by inhibiting the action of xanthine oxidase.

What are the contraindications of Allopurinol?

Hypersensitivity; use cautiously in gout attacks, renal impairment, and dehydration. Safety not established in pregnancy; only used while lactating if benefits to the mother outweigh risks to the infant. Caution in older adults.

What lab tests should you monitor for Allopurinol?

Renal, hepatic, and liver function tests.

What patient education should you teach the patient about Allopurinol?

Instruct patient to increase fluid intake to enhance drug and uric acid excretion; advise female patients to report pregnancy. Signup and view all the answers

What should the patient have every year when taking Allopurinol?

A yearly eye exam. Signup and view all the answers

What should patients not do when taking Allopurinol?

They should not operate machinery. Signup and view all the answers

What are the pre and post assessments of Allopurinol?

Monitor for intake and output; assess for rash or more hypersensitivity reactions; monitor for gout swelling and pain. Signup and view all the answers

How should Allopurinol be administered?

May take with oral tablets with milk to prevent gastric upset and can be crushed with food. Signup and view all the answers

What are the side effects and adverse reactions of Allopurinol?

Hypotension, flushing, hypertension, bradycardia, and heart failure; Stevens-Johnson syndrome, diarrhea, hepatitis, nausea, vomiting, renal failure, bone marrow depression, and rash. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Allopurinol: Overview

Allopurinol is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor that reduces uric acid production, useful for treating gout, hypercalcemia, and renal calculi.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits xanthine oxidase enzyme, leading to decreased synthesis of uric acid in the body.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity.
Use with caution during acute gout attacks, renal impairment, and dehydration.
Safety during pregnancy is not established; breastfeeding is only recommended if benefits outweigh risks.
Extra caution is needed for older adults.

Monitoring and Lab Tests

Regular monitoring of renal and hepatic function is essential.
Required tests include assessment of allele genes and monitoring serum glucose levels.
Allopurinol may elevate alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, AST, and ALT levels, and may lead to decreased CBC levels.

Patient Education

Increase fluid intake to enhance uric acid excretion and support kidney function.
Female patients should report any pregnancies.

Yearly Assessments

Patients should have an annual eye exam to detect visual changes that may occur due to long-term use of Allopurinol.

Patient Restrictions

Avoid operating machinery while on Allopurinol, especially when consuming alcohol.

Pre and Post-Assessment

Monitor hydration status; intake should be around 2500-3000 mL of fluids daily.
Assess for any rash or signs of hypersensitivity.
Observe for symptoms of gout, including swelling and pain.

Administration

Allopurinol can be taken orally, possibly with milk to prevent gastric upset; tablets can be crushed with food if needed.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Possible side effects include hypotension, flushing, hypertension, bradycardia, and heart failure.
Serious reactions could involve Stevens-Johnson syndrome, diarrhea, hepatitis, nausea, vomiting, renal failure, and bone marrow depression.

Description

Test your knowledge about Allopurinol, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used for treating gout and related conditions. This quiz covers its mechanism of action, contraindications, and important safety information. Perfect for students and professionals in pharmacology or medicine!