Which of the following statements explains why allopurinol is able to prevent gout?
A)Allopurinol binds to uric acid,thus preventing the formation of uric acid crystals.
B)Allopurinol acts as a diuretic to increase the elimination of uric acid.
C)Allopurinol inhibits the production of uric acid and allows for the more highly soluble xanthine and hypoxanthine to be excreted from the body.
D)Allopurinol stimulates the purine salvage pathway,thus eliminating the need for production of uric acid.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Allopurinol inhibits the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is responsible for the production of uric acid. By inhibiting uric acid production, allopurinol allows for the excretion of more highly soluble xanthine and hypoxanthine. This reduces the amount of uric acid in the body, thereby preventing the formation of uric acid crystals and the resulting symptoms of gout.

Which of the Following Statements Explains Why Allopurinol Is Able