Management of Acute Gout: Review of the treatment framework

Gout, a condition characterized by the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals in the joints, is associated with hyperuricemia.It is linked to multiple etiologies such as genetics, diet and comorbidities and progresses from asymptomatic hyperuricemia to acute flares and, if untreated, to chronic gout.Gout flares are marked by sudden, severe joint pain and inflammation, requiring timely intervention.Effective management of gout requires a combination of acute symptoms relief and prevention of future flares.Anti-inflammatory agents such as NSAIDs, colchicine or glucocorticoids are pivotal in treating acute attacks.Recently, canakinumab, an IL-1 inhibitor, has been approved for treating gout flares, representing a significant advancement in therapy.Alongside drug treatments, non-pharmacological approaches, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications, play an important role in managing gout and its symptoms.These modifications help prevent recurrent attacks and reduce the severity of symptoms over time.Personalized treatment plans are crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.Medicinal plants are increasingly being adopted due to their natural origin and historical evidence of efficacy and safety with various plants shown to have xanthine oxidase inhibition activity for use in treatment of gout.The individualized approach to therapy is critical, as treatment needs may vary based on the patient's condition, comorbidities, and response to medications.It is important to combine traditional treatments with newer therapies and lifestyle modifications, to provide a holistic approach to acute gout management and improve the patient's quality of life.