2017 HCHB_digital

CONTINUING OTC EDUCATION
of Maori or Pacific ancestry. People who drink soft drinks sweetened with high
fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or consume diets rich in fruit or fruit juice are also at
increased risk. In addition, certain medical conditions (eg, type 2 diabetes, kidney
problems, elevated blood pressure), some medicines (eg, diuretics, cytotoxics),
large intakes of purine-rich foods or alcohol (particularly beer) and joint injury
also contribute to the risk.
Treating a gout attack
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are recommended first line
(unless contraindicated) as pain relief for acute attacks of gout (see Treatment
Options previous page). Corticosteroids or low dose colchicine can be used as
an alternative to NSAIDs.
Any medicine used to treat acute attacks should be taken at the first sign of
an attack at an effective dose. In most people, pain and inflammation caused by
the gout can be controlled within 12–24 hours and treatment discontinued after
a few days.
Drugs used for gout attacks have no effect on reducing uric acid levels and all
customers with symptoms suggestive of gout should be referred to a doctor for
consideration of allopurinol or probenecid. Early prevention of gout, before the
onset of tophi, erosive disease and renal impairment, is vital.
Preventing gout
Most experts agree preventive therapies should aim to reduce serum uric
acid concentration to below 0.36mmol/L (some experts aim for as low as