Treatment of an Acute Attack of Gout
Pain relievers, such as paracetamol or other more powerful analgesics, are used to manage the pain. Anti-inflammatories, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are used to decrease joint inflammation and reduce the pain.
If NSAIDs cannot be given because of an ulcer, colchicine may be used to settle an attack. Steroids may be given by mouth or injected into the joint to control an attack of gout.
Aspirin must be avoided.
Resting the joint, possibly in a splint, and applying ice packs may help. Medications to avoid recurrent attacks Allopurinol is used in long-term prevention of gout and decreases the body's production of uric acid.
Medications may be used to increase uric acid passed in the urine. These types of medications (uricosuric drugs), for example probenecid, assist in reducing the risk of recurrent attacks of arthritis, kidney stones and kidney disease.
People experiencing gout attacks should, however, avoid medications
containing aspirin as these can make gout worse.