Medications for gout typically include either over-the-counter or prescription medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also called NSAIDs, are often used in the treatment of gout because they can reduce the joint swelling that is associated with it. Some examples of NSAIDs are medicines containing ibuprofen or naproxen. People with more severe gout may have to take prescription medications for gout, which might include steroids. These steroids are typically either injected or taken orally, and they may be able to effectively reduce gout swelling and pain.
Drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, which are available without a prescription and do not contain steroids, are often used for people who have mild gout. There are also stronger prescription forms of these drugs that may be effective for people with moderate to severe gout. People who find no relief using these drugs for gout treatment usually find that steroids are effective, but unfortunately there are a number of side effects and drawbacks to taking steroids on a regular basis. Additionally, the relief provided from steroid treatment may only last for a week or less and cannot typically be repeated until a certain amount of time has passed.
Other medications for gout include drugs to reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood. These are often effective because too much uric acid is one of the primary causes of gout. There are different types of these drugs that fall under several different brand names, but most of them either limit the amount of uric acid the body produces or make it easier for the body to cleanse itself of excess uric acid. When the amounts of uric acid in the body are under control, gout is less likely to flare up. A person who is interested in taking drugs for controlling uric acid in the body should check with his doctor to be sure it is right for him because there are a few side effects associated with uric acid medications for gout.
In addition to medications, there are some natural remedies that may help with frequent gout flare-ups. Getting in extra vitamin C every day may help to reduce uric acid levels in the bloodstream. Eating black cherries and ginger root are also considered useful remedies for the treatment of gout. Applying ice to swollen joints can also give a person with gout some relief, much in the same way that it is useful for a person who is experiencing swelling as a result of an injury. There is no certain cure for gout, but the use of medicines and some home remedies can make the problem manageable for most people.