Overview Of Common Gout Medications

Gout is one of many types of arthritis! It is the result of uric acid buildup in the body, specifically around the joints. This condition triggers severe joint pain, and affected joints will also turn red and swell. The big toe is the joint affected by gout the most! Other commonly affected joints include the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. Most symptoms appear suddenly and at night! Severe joint pain lasts for four to twelve hours in a gout attack. However, general discomfort lasts up to several weeks! Many patients experience a reduced range of motion in their joints as well.

Prescription medicine for gout pain is an incredibly common gout treatment! Typically, patients take uric acid lowering medicine and anti-inflammatory medicine for gout. Doctors also prescribe an ointment for gout pain to certain patients! Some patients try natural gout remedies, including following a gout diet. However, they still need to take gout control medications in most cases. Thus, they need to understand the most common options!

Colchicine

Colchicine is an oral medication that treats acute symptoms of gout. This includes pain! Low doses of this medication prevent gout attacks when patients take them daily. This medication reduces the buildup of uric acid crystals in the body. It also reduces joint swelling! However, patients need to discuss their medical history with their doctor first. This medication is not the right choice when patients have a history of liver or kidney disease! Certain medications interact with colchicine as well. Examples include cholesterol medications and digoxin. Patients have to avoid these interactions by reviewing their options with their doctor first.

Patients will also experience mild side effects when they take this medication. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and pain in the abdomen! Rare side effects are muscle weakness, shortness of breath, severe diarrhea, and numbness in the fingers and toes. Doctors need to know immediately about these effects!

Continue reading to learn about more gout medications now.