Begin with a low dose of allopurinol and increase it gradually. This minimizes the chance of acute kidney injury.
Maintain adequate hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out uric acid and reduce kidney strain. Aim for at least eight glasses.
Regularly monitor your kidney function with blood tests. Your doctor will schedule these tests to track creatinine and eGFR levels. These tests show how well your kidneys are working.
Report any signs of kidney problems immediately. These include decreased urine output, swelling in your legs or ankles, or persistent fatigue. Prompt reporting is crucial for timely intervention.
Consider alternative treatments if allopurinol causes kidney problems. Your doctor can discuss options like febuxostat or pegloticase, depending on your individual situation.
Manage underlying conditions contributing to kidney disease. Control diabetes and high blood pressure, as these can increase the risk of kidney damage while on allopurinol.
Discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. Certain medications can increase the risk of kidney problems when combined with allopurinol.
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Adherence to prescribed dosage and monitoring schedules is key to minimizing potential risks.
