"How is Gout Treated?"
Gout: Causes, Management, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperuricemia, recurrent episodes of arthritis, and chronic interstitial nephropathy. For individuals with gout, it is crucial to avoid high-purine foods in daily life and adhere to a prescribed medication regimen under medical supervision for standardized treatment.
1. Dietary Control
Patients are advised to adopt a low-purine diet, focusing on plant-based foods such as vegetables and fruits. Additionally, alcohol consumption and intake of beverages containing fructose should be limited.
2. Uric Acid-Lowering Medications
Commonly prescribed medications to reduce uric acid levels include Febuxostat tablets or Benzbromarone capsules. When monotherapy is insufficient, combination therapy may be considered, often pairing Allopurinol Sustained-Release Tablets with Sodium Bicarbonate, with close monitoring of liver function.
3. Colchicine
During acute attacks, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications are the first-line choice due to their rapid onset and ability to alleviate pain symptoms promptly. Examples include Diclofenac Sodium Enteric-Coated Tablets, Etoricoxib Tablets, and Celecoxib Capsules. These medications may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, thus should be taken after meals with careful monitoring for adverse reactions.
4. Glucocorticoids
For cases where the aforementioned treatments are ineffective, glucocorticoids, typically administered intravenously as Prednisolone Injection, may be used for short-term management.
5. Other Medications
Options also include Probenecid for enhancing uric acid excretion, Febuxostat for inhibiting uric acid synthesis, and Benzbromarone as a frontline agent for reducing uric acid production. The choice of medication depends on the patient's specific condition.
In the presence of severe complications, surgical intervention may be necessary. Upon diagnosis, prompt medical attention and adherence to prescribed medication regimens are essential for managing gout, with regular follow-ups to monitor disease progression.
