Gout is a type of arthritis caused by uric acid building up in a joint. The condition causes pain and swelling in the joint. Common joints affected by gout include the ankle, feet and big toe. Eating foods such as asparagus, mushrooms and organ meats increases the possibility of developing gout. Most individuals experience gout as an acute attack that will reoccur only when uric acid builds in the joint again. Several medications, used alone or in combination, treat the symptoms of gout.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen and ibuprofen. Some NSAID medications are available for purchase over-the-counter and others are available by prescription. These medicines treat the inflammation and pain associated with an acute gout attack. Side effects of NSAID medications include possible damage to the liver and bleeding ulcers in the stomach.
Colchicine
Colchicine is a medication available with a physician's prescription. For individuals unable to take NSAIDs because of medical conditions, colchicine helps reduce the pain and inflammation associated with gout. Common side effects of colchicine include gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Narcotics
When the pain of gout becomes unbearable or is not controlled with NSAIDs or colchicines, a physician may prescribe a narcotic pain medication. Most prescriptions for narcotics are for short-term use on a specific gout attack, not for continued use. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, commonly prescribed narcotics for gout include codeine, oxycodone and hydrocodone. Narcotics have side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids help control the inflammation associated with gout. Physicians prescribe steroid therapy for gout that does not respond to colchicines or NASIDs or for individuals who are unable to take the other medicine. Doctors inject corticosteroids directly into the affected joint or prescribe them in pill form for the patient to take by mouth. The steroids may cause an increase in infections, because the medication can depress the immune system.
Uric Acid Blocker
Because gout develops from the body storing uric acid in joints, medications to stop the production of uric acid in the body may help treat the condition. These medications, called xanthine oxidase inhibitors, are available in tablet form. Common side effects to these medications include possible rashes and abnormal blood counts. Using this medicine before an acute attack is over may cause the attack to worsen.
Uric Acid Remover
Probenecid is a medication designed to help improve the kidney's ability to expel the uric acid from the body, states the Mayo Clinic, which makes it an acceptable treatment for gout. Some common side effects of probenecid may include painful kidney stones and rashes.
