Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors
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Overview
Medications that lower serum uric acid levels by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, the enzyme responsible for converting hypoxanthine to xanthine and xanthine to uric acid. They are the most commonly prescribed urate-lowering therapy for chronic gout management.
How do xanthine oxidase inhibitors work?
Xanthine oxidase inhibitors block xanthine oxidase, the enzyme that catalyzes the final two steps of purine catabolism: the oxidation of hypoxanthine to xanthine and xanthine to uric acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, these drugs reduce uric acid production, gradually lowering serum urate levels below the saturation point to prevent crystal formation and promote dissolution of existing urate deposits.
Drugs in this class
- Allopurinol (Zyloprim, Aloprim)