Over The Counter Medicine To Reduce Uric Acid
Introduction
Gout is a type of arthritis that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to the formation of urate crystals in the joints, resulting in severe pain and inflammation. While prescription drugs like allopurinol and probenecid are commonly used to lower uric acid levels, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can also be effective in reducing symptoms of gout. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicines to reduce uric acid levels and alleviate gout symptoms.
Allopurinol
Allopurinol is a prescription medication that is commonly used to lower uric acid levels. However, it can also be purchased over the counter in some countries. Allopurinol works by reducing the production of uric acid in the body, which can help prevent gout attacks. It is usually taken once a day and can take several weeks to start working. While allopurinol is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as skin rash, nausea, and liver problems.
Probenecid
Probenecid is another prescription medication that is used to lower uric acid levels. It works by increasing the excretion of uric acid from the body, which can help prevent gout attacks. Probenecid is usually taken twice a day and can take several weeks to start working. While probenecid is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as stomach upset, headache, and kidney problems.
Colchicine
Colchicine is an OTC medication that is commonly used to treat gout attacks. It works by reducing inflammation and pain caused by urate crystals in the joints. Colchicine is usually taken as soon as gout symptoms appear and can be taken every 2-3 hours until the symptoms improve. While colchicine is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by gout attacks. They work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause inflammation in the body. NSAIDs can be purchased over the counter and are usually taken every 4-6 hours as needed. While NSAIDs are generally safe, they can cause side effects such as stomach upset, bleeding, and kidney problems.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is an OTC medication that is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever. While it is not effective in reducing uric acid levels, it can be useful in relieving pain caused by gout attacks. Acetaminophen is usually taken every 4-6 hours as needed. While acetaminophen is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as liver damage if taken in large amounts or for a long period of time.
Herbal remedies
Some herbal remedies may also be effective in reducing uric acid levels and relieving gout symptoms. These include cherry juice, turmeric, ginger, and green tea. While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of these remedies, many people find them helpful in managing gout symptoms. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies, as they can interact with other medications and cause side effects.
Conclusion
While prescription drugs are often used to lower uric acid levels and alleviate gout symptoms, over-the-counter medicines can also be effective in managing this condition. Allopurinol and probenecid are prescription medications that can be purchased over the counter in some countries, while colchicine, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen are available without a prescription. Herbal remedies such as cherry juice, turmeric, ginger, and green tea may also be helpful in managing gout symptoms. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medication or herbal remedy, as they can interact with other medications and cause side effects.