Overview of Allopurinol Decisions in Primary Care: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Allopurinol is a type of drug called a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. It functions by lowering the production of uric acid in the body. It can be found in the kind of an oral tablet. Generalist physicians, specifically general internists and primary care physicians, are usually the first to see individuals with gout and for that reason play an essential role in the diagnosis and management of these patients. Gout is mostly managed in primary care and lasting treatment aims to reduce serum uric acid degrees with using allopurinol. Urate lowering therapy is indicated in patients who have had an acute gout attack and whose uric acid level remains high, increasing the risk of a subsequent attack. The effect of allopurinol on uric acid level is dose dependent and variable. Aim of the Study: In the present review, we aimed at discussing the indications of Allopurinol in primary care along with its benefits and side effects which should be considered by patients and physicians before prescribing it. Methods: Narrative review was conducted using electronic database such as; PubMed/Medline, Embase, Google scholar, for relevant articles related to our concerned topic which is about the usage of allopurinol in primary care and methods that family doctors use to make a decision about the usage, published up to 2018. Conclusion: The benefit-risk balance of allopurinol should be carefully assessed with respect to the patients’ condition and medical profile before prescription in the PCU.