A SURVEY OF ALLOPURINOL DOSAGE PRESCRIBING

Aim. To evaluate the appropriateness of allopurinol dosage according t o renal function in patients at Dunedin and Wakari hospitals. Method. A prospective survey of all patients receiving allopurinol therapy at Dunedin and Wakari hospitals during a four week period in January/Febr uary 1994 was performed. Data were collected from medication charts, p atient notes and laboratory records. Dosage prescribed was compared wi th established guidelines. Results. Of 46 patients on allopurinol trea tment 18 were prescribed at least 100 mg more than the recommended dai ly dose. Twenty-nine out of the 46 surveyed patients (median age 77 ye ars) had mild to moderate renal impairment. Conclusions. A significant proportion of patients were receiving excessive doses, Although infor mation regarding the allopurinol hypersensitivity syndrome and individ ualised allopurinol dosage is available, it is evident that many pract itioners remain unaware of the recommendations.