🦶 Gout

Commonly prescribed medications, what to avoid, and lifestyle guidance

📋 Overview

Gout is caused by uric acid crystals in joints causing sudden severe pain. Treatment addresses acute attacks and prevention.

💊 Commonly Prescribed Medications

Colchicine (Colcrys)Anti-inflammatory (Acute)

Best for acute attacks when started within 12-24 hours.

High-dose NSAIDs for 5-7 days for acute attacks.

PrednisoneCorticosteroid (Acute)

Used when NSAIDs and colchicine are contraindicated.

Daily prevention. Do not start during an acute attack.

Alternative to allopurinol. More effective but more expensive.

🚫 What to Avoid

Alcohol (especially beer) raises uric acid. Red meat, organ meats, shellfish. Diuretics raise uric acid.

🥗 Lifestyle Tips

Stay well hydrated (2-3 liters/day), limit alcohol, avoid purine-rich foods.

📋 Important Note

Allopurinol should NOT be started during an acute attack. Wait 2-4 weeks after attack resolves.