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Gouty Arthritis

Gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis caused by monosodium urate crystals forming inside a joint. Attacks can develop quickly, often overnight.

Medicine used to treat Gouty Arthritis

Etoricoxib

Etoricoxib

60 · 90 · 120mg

Etoricoxib is an anti-inflammatory tablet for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and gouty arthritis. It comes in several strengths and pack sizes. Each option lists its price per tablet.

FromUS$0.67/ tabletView

Key points

  • Gout affects men more often, and risk rises with age.
  • A flare is usually eased with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen.
  • Gout that is left untreated can damage joints over time.

What causes a flare

Gout flares are linked to persistently high uric acid in the blood. The kidneys normally clear uric acid, but purine-rich foods such as red meat, shellfish and organ meats, alcohol, and fructose-sweetened drinks can raise levels beyond what the kidneys remove. A lack of fluid, or a sharp shift in uric acid, may also bring on an attack. Some people inherit a tendency to excrete less uric acid, and a seafood-heavy diet can add to risk.

Symptoms

The classic attack causes sudden severe pain in one joint, most often the big toe. The feet, ankles, hands, wrists, elbows and knees may also be involved. The joint becomes red, swollen and very tender.

Treating an attack

The aim is to reduce inflammation quickly. Etoricoxib is a COX-2 selective anti-inflammatory. It is used for joint inflammation and is less likely than older NSAIDs to irritate the stomach. Etoricoxib tablets are supplied in 60, 90 and 120 mg strengths. Etoricoxib is listed for gouty arthritis, and the etoricoxib ingredient page gives more detail. Resting the joint, keeping it raised, avoiding pressure on it and staying hydrated can help shorten an attack. Orders are shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

When to get help

Seek medical advice when a flare has not improved after a week, or when attacks happen more often. Repeated attacks may need treatment that lowers uric acid, to protect the joints in the long term.

What the sources say

  • If sudden joint pain and swelling worsen and come with a very high temperature or feeling sick, this may be a joint infection and needs urgent medical help (NHS).
  • Untreated gout can lead to painful hard lumps called tophi under the skin, usually on the ears, fingers or elbows (NHS).
  • Treatment should start at the first sign of an attack (NHS).

Further reading

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