Prophylaxis for Acute Gout Flares After Therapy
Prophylaxis for Acute Gout Flares After Therapy
Considering prophylaxis for acute GFs is critical in the management of gout because it may help to enhance adherence to ULT, which can cure gout, if taken appropriately. The currently recommended drugs for prophylaxis are those used to treat acute gout, but at a lower dosage. The available therapeutic options comprise colchicine, NSAIDs and oral corticosteroids. We lack data comparing their efficacy. Therefore the choice of drug should be based on tolerance, the presence of co-morbidities and other medications taken by the patient. In the near future, IL-1 blockers may be added to this armamentarium. Slow upward titration of ULT, when feasible, is a key aspect of the management of gout that allows for a decreased risk of flares.
Conclusions
Considering prophylaxis for acute GFs is critical in the management of gout because it may help to enhance adherence to ULT, which can cure gout, if taken appropriately. The currently recommended drugs for prophylaxis are those used to treat acute gout, but at a lower dosage. The available therapeutic options comprise colchicine, NSAIDs and oral corticosteroids. We lack data comparing their efficacy. Therefore the choice of drug should be based on tolerance, the presence of co-morbidities and other medications taken by the patient. In the near future, IL-1 blockers may be added to this armamentarium. Slow upward titration of ULT, when feasible, is a key aspect of the management of gout that allows for a decreased risk of flares.