NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation during acute gout attacks and can be an effective first-line treatment option for many patients.
NSAIDs work by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX), which produce prostaglandins—compounds that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin production, NSAIDs help decrease the inflammation and pain associated with gout attacks.
Unlike uric acid-lowering medications, NSAIDs do not affect uric acid levels or prevent crystal formation. They are used primarily to manage the symptoms of acute gout flares rather than addressing the underlying cause of gout.
Several NSAIDs are commonly used to treat gout attacks:
Often considered the most effective NSAID for gout, typically prescribed at 50mg three times daily during acute attacks.
While effective, it may cause more side effects than other options.
Commonly prescribed at 500mg twice daily for gout flares. Available both by prescription and over-the-counter (as Aleve).
Often better tolerated than indomethacin with a longer half-life, requiring less frequent dosing.
Widely available over-the-counter, typically used at higher doses (800mg three times daily) for gout than for everyday pain.
While perhaps not as potent as prescription options, it can be effective when taken promptly at anti-inflammatory doses.
Other NSAIDs used for gout include diclofenac, etodolac, and the COX-2 selective inhibitor celecoxib (Celebrex), which may cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects but carries similar cardiovascular risks.
While effective for treating gout flares, NSAIDs can cause significant side effects, especially when used at high doses or for extended periods:
Important Warning:
All NSAIDs (except aspirin) may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and related conditions. This risk may be greater if you have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
NSAIDs are effective for many patients with acute gout attacks:
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin) are anti-inflammatory drugs. They don't fix the root cause of gout, but they're fast at shutting down the fire when a flare starts.
Indomethacin is the classic pick, but others like naproxen and celecoxib work too. The best one is often the one your stomach tolerates and your insurance covers.
When taken early—like within the first few hours—NSAIDs can ease pain and swelling in a day or two. Miss that window, and it might take longer.
Sometimes, yes—but only under a provider's guidance. Doubling up anti-inflammatory meds can help, or cause trouble, depending on your health.
They can irritate your stomach, raise blood pressure, or stress your kidneys. Long-term use is risky—these are short-term tools, not daily drivers.
They can be, especially if you take the full anti-inflammatory dose early. But if OTC isn't cutting it, you may need a prescription-strength option.
If you have kidney disease, ulcers, or heart failure, NSAIDs may do more harm than good. Talk to your doctor—there are other ways to fight flares.
Nope. They treat the pain, not the problem. You'll still need a long-term plan (like allopurinol or febuxostat) to prevent future flares.
It's not ideal. Alcohol can worsen stomach side effects and might raise uric acid too. If you do drink, go easy.
For the occasional flare, yes. But frequent use is a red flag—your gout might not be under control, and NSAIDs won't solve that.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience and analyze site traffic.
By clicking "Accept", you consent to our use of cookies.
