What is an expected outcome of treatment with allopurinol?

The primary function of allopurinol is to inhibit xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the production of uric acid. By blocking this enzyme, allopurinol effectively reduces the synthesis of uric acid, leading to lower levels of uric acid in the blood and urine. This outcome is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from conditions such as gout or hyperuricemia, as it helps prevent the formation of urate crystals that can cause painful inflammation in joints and tissues.

In contrast, while some may consider outcomes such as decreases in serum creatinine or effects on blood components like white blood cells or potassium levels, these are not directly linked to allopurinol's primary mechanism of action. The decrease in serum creatinine would typically relate to improved kidney function or other medications affecting renal parameters. An increase in white blood cell count could suggest inflammation or infection, which is not a desired effect of allopurinol. Similarly, potassium levels are not typically influenced by allopurinol use. Therefore, the expected outcome of treatment with allopurinol focuses primarily on the effective decrease in uric acid levels.