Oxypurinol

Synonyms

Oxipurinol.

Class and Category

Hypouremic; xanthine oxidase inhibitors.

Indications

As a probationary substitute for allopurinol in persons who are sensitive to that drug. (See allopurinol)

Dosage

No fixed dose: it should be given in the smallest available dose and increased as tolerated to whatever level is needed for control of hyperuricemia and its complications.

Adverse Reactions

Those of allopurinol.

Drug Interactions

Those of allopurinol.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of xanthine oxidase is its major mode of action.

Definition

Oxypurinol (oxipurinol) is the major metabolic product of allopurinol, an analogue of xanthine, and a potent inhibitor of xanthine oxidase, hence its classification as a hypouricemic drug. Although the plasma half-life of oxipurinol is as much as eight times longer than that of allopurinol, it is not in general use because of its poor absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. It has been used therapeutically in persons who are sensitive...