Gout and long time muscle, cartilage , heart damage while taking 150 mg of allopurinol

[Paul Maynard]

I have noticed my shoulders have been causing more pain over the last year or so. I take 150 mg of allopurinol a day. This is considered a low dose. Through research I learn a low dose may cause such problems. That 300 is better. Or should a person get off allopurinol completely and drink more lemon/ baking soda, cherry juice, vinager, other??? Suggestions? Kidneys and lower back pain worse lately.

[Keith Taylor]

Allopurinol dose has to be tailored to every gout patient individually, based on the results of blood tests.

For some people, 150 is too high. For others, it is too low. Same for 300mg, or any other dose.

Also, doses change at different stages of your treatment, if it is managed correctly.

There is a test phase, one or more titration phases, a debulking phase, one or more stabilization phases, then a maintenance phase. The only one that is fixed for everyone is the first phase. The test phase dose is 100mg daily. 3 Blood tests are required after starting allopurinol, whenever dose changes, and always at least once per year. The tests are uric acid, kidney function, and liver function.

In the titration phase(s), allopurinol dose is increased to get uric acid as low as possible. Once it is as low as possible, the debulking phase continues until six months after your last gout attack. Then, the stabilization phase(s) reduce allopurinol dose. Allopurinol dose needs to be slowly reduced until uric acid is 5mg/dL, or slightly lower. That gives your maintenance dose, which continues for life. It is important to continue the 3 tests at least once a year. Test results might indicate occasional adjustments.

If allopurinol is managed properly, then uric acid is soon controlled to safe levels, and gout attacks will slowly disappear. If it is not managed correctly, it is a complete waste of time. If the dose is too low, it can cause problems, but there is no fixed amount of allopurinol. It is a matter of determining what dose is right for you. That is why blood tests are so important. Uric acid, kidney function, and liver function must all be monitored responsibly.

If you are experiencing kidney or lower back pain, you must consult your doctor immediately.

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