This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Allopurinol is a medicine used to lower levels of uric acid in your blood.
If you produce too much uric acid or your kidneys do not filter enough out, it can build up and cause tiny, sharp crystals. These crystals can form around your joints, which cause the swollen and painful symptoms of gout. Crystals can also collect inside the kidneys and damage them.
It may also be prescribed if you're having some types of cancer treatment. Some treatments can cause a build-up of uric acid.
Allopurinol comes as tablets and is only available on prescription.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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