How is gout treated?

Your healthcare provider may prescribe certain medications to treat gout.

Some drugs help control symptoms:

  • NSAIDs can reduce pain and swelling. Some people with kidney disease, stomach ulcers and other health problems are unable to take NSAIDs.
  • Colchicine can reduce inflammation and pain if you take it within 24 hours of a gout attack. It’s given by mouth.
  • Corticosteroids can relieve pain and swelling. You take steroids by mouth or with an injection.

Drugs that help lower levels of uric acid in your body to prevent or reduce future episodes of gout attacks:

  • Allopurinol, taken as a pill.
  • Febuxostat, taken as a pill.
  • Pegloticase, given as an intravenous (in the vein) infusion.
  • Probenecid, taken as a pill.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 11/15/2020.

References

  • American College of Rheumatology. Gout. Accessed 11/17/2020.
  • Arthritis Foundation. Gout. Accessed 11/17/2020.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gout. Accessed 11/17/2020.
  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Gout. Accessed 11/17/2020.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy