Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). If stomach upset occurs, this medication may be taken with food or antacid. To prevent kidney stones while taking this drug, drink plenty of fluids throughout the day unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Taking products such as sodium bicarbonate and avoiding large amounts of vitamin C can also help reduce your risk for kidney stones. Ask your doctor for more details.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk for serious side effects, do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than directed by your doctor. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and adjust your dose during treatment with this medication.

After starting this medication, you may have an increase in the number of gout attacks while your body gets rid of extra uric acid. This may last for several months until the uric acid in your blood is lowered. Do not stop taking this drug if you have a sudden gout attack. Keep taking it along with the medications (such as colchicine, ibuprofen, indomethacin) prescribed by your doctor for gout pain.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.