Which agent is typically used to treat an acute gout attack?

Which agent is typically used to treat an acute gout attack?

• A. Allopurinol
• B. Indomethacin
• C. Probenecid
• D. Pegloticase

Answer: (B)

An acute gout attack is driven by a sudden inflammatory response to urate crystals, so the goals are rapid anti-inflammatory relief and pain control. An NSAID that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, like indomethacin, quickly reduces joint inflammation and pain, making it a common first-line treatment for an acute flare. The other agents shown target uric acid levels over time rather than providing fast anti-inflammatory effects: allopurinol lowers uric acid production but isn’t used for immediate relief and can worsen the attack if started during the flare; probenecid increases uric acid excretion but doesn’t address acute inflammation; pegloticase degrades uric acid and is reserved for chronic, refractory gout. Therefore, indomethacin is the best choice for treating an acute gout attack.

An acute gout attack is driven by a sudden inflammatory response to urate crystals, so the goals are rapid anti-inflammatory relief and pain control. An NSAID that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, like indomethacin, quickly reduces joint inflammation and pain, making it a common first-line treatment for an acute flare. The other agents shown target uric acid levels over time rather than providing fast anti-inflammatory effects: allopurinol lowers uric acid production but isn’t used for immediate relief and can worsen the attack if started during the flare; probenecid increases uric acid excretion but doesn’t address acute inflammation; pegloticase degrades uric acid and is reserved for chronic, refractory gout. Therefore, indomethacin is the best choice for treating an acute gout attack.