Which medications could be safely initiated during an acute attack of gout?

During an acute attack of gout, it is essential to effectively manage pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen, are commonly employed for this purpose due to their ability to provide rapid relief from pain and swelling associated with gout flares. Naproxen acts by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which play a key role in the inflammation process.

While other options may also be utilized in the management of gout, they are not recommended for immediate initiation during an acute attack. Allopurinol, for instance, is a urate-lowering medication that is typically prescribed for long-term management of gout to prevent future attacks rather than to alleviate current symptoms. Its initiation during an acute flare can actually worsen the attack.

Indomethacin is another NSAID that can be used for gout flares, but due to its potential side effects and the availability of other safer alternatives like naproxen, it is less favored. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can effectively reduce inflammation and pain but is generally reserved for cases where NSAIDs are contraindicated or not tolerated. Given the preference for immediate pain relief, naproxen is the best choice for use during an acute gout attack