What is the main action of allopurinol?

Allopurinol primarily functions by decreasing the production of uric acid in the body. It achieves this by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for the conversion of hypoxanthine and xanthine into uric acid. By reducing the levels of uric acid, allopurinol helps to prevent gout attacks and reduce the risk of complications such as kidney stones associated with high uric acid levels.

This mechanism is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions like gout or those undergoing chemotherapy, where uric acid levels may rise due to the breakdown of purine-rich tissues. Thus, the main action of allopurinol directly contributes to the management of hyperuricemia by lowering uric acid synthesis and helping maintain appropriate levels in the body.