Allopurinol and Medicare

The primary use of allopurinol is to treat hyperuricemia (excess uric acid in blood plasma) and its complications. Allopurinol does not alleviate acute attacks of gout, but is useful in chronic gout to prevent future attacks. Similarly, allopurinol commonly is used as prophylaxis with chemotherapeutic treatments, which can rapidly produce severe hyperuricemia. Other established indications for allopurinol therapy include ischemic reperfusion injury, kidney stones with a uric acid component (uric acid nephrolithiasis) and protozoal infections (Leishmaniasis). Also used to prevent tumor lysis with certain types of cancer.

Because allopurinol is not a uricosuric, it can be used in patients who have poor kidney function. However, allopurinol has two important disadvantages: its dosing is complex,[2] and some patients will be hypersensitive to it. Therefore, use of this drug requires careful monitoring.

Allopurinol has been marketed in the United States since 1964. Allopurinol is marketed by Prometheus in the United States as Zyloprim, while in other countries it continues to be marketed by GlaxoSmithKline. Other brand names are Allohexal, Allosig, Milurit, Alloril, Progout, and Zyloric. In South Africa, Allopurinol is marketed under the brand name Puricos. It also known as Zyrik 300 in India and Aluron in Venezuela.

Reference: Wikipedia Keep in mind that if you take Allopurinol, that medicines are not covered by your Medicare Supplement, but by your Part D, Prescription Drug coverage. Get your Medicare Supplement Quote If you have limited income, you may qualify for “extra help” with the cost of your prescription medications. You can get more information and apply Here. * The information on this page is for reference only. Always seek the advice of your physician before taking any prescription medication.