Typical pharmaceutical treatments for gout
How is gout usually treated?
Drugs such as allopurinol and probenecid are the most commonly prescribed treatments for gout. Unfortunately not all gout sufferers are able to take them, and they have side-effects and risks.
Allopurinol, also prescribed under the names Zyloprim and Lopurin, is the most commonly prescribed pharmaceutical for urecemia and gout. Allopurinol works by decreasing the body's natural production of uric acid. Potential side-effects include rash, diarrhea, nausea, and drowsiness. There is also the possibility of liver toxicity and inflammation of the blood vessels. Researchers say there is a risk of producing serious and potentially fatal skin problems.
Probenecid increases the rate at which your kidneys remove uric acid from the bloodstream. Unfortunate side effects include, diarrhea, headache, nausea and liver function abnormalities. Taking probenecid can actually increase the number of gout attacks unless the patient also takes anti-inflammation medications along with it. Probenecid is not generally recommended for patients who have kidney stones or who are taking methotrexate.
Colchicine is a drug that is often prescribed as a treatment for ongoing attacks of gout. Colchicine also has known side-effects that include vomiting, diarrhea, bruising, and numbness.
Indomethacin, also know by the brand name Indocin, is used to reduce the inflammation associated with gout attacks. The most common side-effects of Indomethacin are indigestion, stomach pains, dizziness and headaches, as well as nausea and vomiting.
Fortunately, there are natural alternatives available.
