Question

A patient with recurrent gout attacks was started on a therapy that inhibits uric acid synthesis.His symptoms were reduced after therapy. Which drug was he started on ?

• A. Probenecid
• B. Colchicine
• C. Diclofenac
• D. Allopurinol

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The patient with recurrent gout attacks was started on a therapy that inhibits uric acid synthesis. In gout, high levels of uric acid lead to the deposition of urate crystals in joints, causing pain and inflammation. To address this, drugs are used to either reduce inflammation or lower uric acid levels. Among the treatment options listed, let's evaluate their mechanisms:

• Probenecid: This drug increases the excretion of uric acid by the kidneys but does not inhibit uric acid synthesis.
• Colchicine: It reduces inflammation associated with gout but does not affect uric acid levels.
• Diclofenac: A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce pain and inflammation but does not affect uric acid synthesis.
• Allopurinol: This drug is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, which directly inhibits the synthesis of uric acid. This action leads to reduced urate levels and is effective in treating and managing gout long-term.

The optimal choice for inhibiting uric acid synthesis, thereby reducing symptoms, is Allopurinol. This medication decreases uric acid production by inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, making it the correct and logical choice for the patient's treatment.