Which Medications Are Used in the Treatment of Acute Gout?
Gout is a chronic condition caused by an overproduction of uric acid in the body. As the uric acid level increases, urate crystals can form around your joints, which can result in sharp and sudden pain, redness and swelling, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some medications are used to treat gout.
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Prevention
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Lower your consumption of foods that contain purines, which are organic compounds that break down into uric acid during digestion. Kidney, liver, salmon, mackerel, asparagus and mushrooms are high in purines.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen help reduce inflammation, a common symptom caused by acute gout.
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Colchicine
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Colchicine is a prescribed medication to lessen inflammation and reduce pain caused by gouty arthritis. This medication is usually prescribed if you are unable to take NSAIDs, and side effects can be nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Corticosteroids
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Your doctor may prescribe prednisone, a corticosteroid to treat gout. This may be in pill form or administered as an injection during a doctor's visit. Steroids alleviate pain and inflammation, but they can cause undesirable side effects that include bone thinning and a weakened immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Warning
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Talk to your doctor if you are prone to heart disease, blood clots, stroke, liver or kidney disease. Taking NSAIDs for longer than 7 days can cause liver or kidney damage, according to Victor Konshin, author of "Beating Gout."
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