Which pain/gout medication would require dose adjustment?

Which pain/gout medication would require dose adjustment?

• A. Ibuprofen
• B. Allopurinol
• C. Acetaminophen
• D. Prednisone

Answer: (B)

Allopurinol is a medication commonly used to manage gout by reducing uric acid levels in the body. It is essential to adjust the dose of allopurinol based on renal function because the drug is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. In patients with impaired renal function, the risk of toxicity increases, necessitating a lower dose to avoid adverse effects, such as skin rash or gastrointestinal issues. In contrast, medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen do not typically require dose adjustment for most patients, although specific populations, such as those with severe liver disease, might need consideration for acetaminophen. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, also does not necessitate dose adjustments based on renal function and is managed based on the condition being treated. Therefore, allopurinol stands out as the medication that requires careful dose management and adjustment based on the patient's kidney function.

Allopurinol is a medication commonly used to manage gout by reducing uric acid levels in the body. It is essential to adjust the dose of allopurinol based on renal function because the drug is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. In patients with impaired renal function, the risk of toxicity increases, necessitating a lower dose to avoid adverse effects, such as skin rash or gastrointestinal issues.

In contrast, medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen do not typically require dose adjustment for most patients, although specific populations, such as those with severe liver disease, might need consideration for acetaminophen. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, also does not necessitate dose adjustments based on renal function and is managed based on the condition being treated. Therefore, allopurinol stands out as the medication that requires careful dose management and adjustment based on the patient's kidney function.