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Gout

Medications used to treat and prevent gout attacks.

What is Gout?

Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain, swelling, and redness in one or more joints. It often starts as a flare, which can last for a week or two before improving. The big toe or lower limbs are usually the first areas affected.

What Causes Gout?

Gout occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body over time. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in many foods and body tissues. If the body produces too much uric acid or does not remove enough of it, levels can build up, leading to the formation of needle-like crystals in the joints.

Symptoms of Gout

Gout typically affects one joint at a time, often the big toe, but it can also involve other joints like the ankle and knee. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. Flares can start suddenly, often at night, and usually improve within a week or two.

Why It Matters if Untreated

If gout is left untreated, flares may occur more frequently and last longer. Over time, untreated gout can lead to the development of tophi, which are hard deposits of uric acid under the skin. These can become painful and may cause damage to bones and soft tissues.

How is Gout Treated?

Treatment for gout aims to reduce pain during flares and prevent future episodes. This can include lifestyle changes such as losing weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding foods high in purines. A range of prescription medicines may also be used to lower uric acid levels in the blood.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms of gout, such as sudden intense pain in a joint, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Medications used to treat Gout

Several classes of medication treat gout. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:

Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors
These medications reduce uric acid production in the body, helping to prevent gout attacks.
Compare prices: Allopurinol, Febuxostat
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs relieve pain and reduce inflammation, making them effective for managing gout symptoms.
Compare prices: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Indomethacin
Colchicine
Colchicine works by reducing inflammation and pain during gout attacks.
Compare prices: Colchicine, Colchicine Probenecid
Uricosurics
These medications help the kidneys remove uric acid from the body, lowering uric acid levels.
Compare prices: Probenecid, Sulindac
Salicylates
Salicylates are anti-inflammatory medications that can help relieve pain but may not be effective for lowering uric acid levels.
Compare prices: Aspirin, Aspirin Low Dose
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Frequently asked questions

What are the common symptoms of gout?

Common symptoms of gout include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint, often starting suddenly at night.

What causes the buildup of uric acid in the body?

Uric acid builds up in the body when there is too much produced or not enough removed, often due to the breakdown of purines found in foods and body tissues.

Who is more likely to develop gout?

People are more likely to develop gout if they are male, older, have obesity, certain health conditions, a family history of gout, or an unhealthy diet.

What happens if gout is left untreated?

If gout is untreated, flares may occur more often and last longer, and it can lead to the formation of tophi, which can cause pain and damage to joints.

How can gout be managed?

Gout can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and dietary adjustments, along with a range of prescription medicines to lower uric acid levels.

Compare prices for gout medications

22 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.

Learn more about gout

Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.

Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

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