Learning scenario 2
Learning scenario
Edward Monson has been taking allopurinol for a year.
He expresses frustration that he is experiencing a second gout attack. You look at his medication record and see that he is
on 200mg od.
What do you advise?
Ask Edward when he last had a blood test to check his uric acid levels
CORRECT. Allopurinol is prescribed using a treat-to-target strategy, underpinned by uric acid level monitoring.
Check if he is taking the allopurinol as prescribed
CORRECT. Poor adherence with the dosage regimen could mean his uric acid levels are not as low as might otherwise be achieved.
See if he is on any other medication that may be exacerbating the issue
CORRECT. Diuretics, ciclosporin and aspirin all increase the risk of developing gout symptoms.
Talk to Edward about his lifestyle
CORRECT. Lifestyle modifications such as eating a healthy balanced diet, ensuring body weight is in the recommended range and keeping to recommended alcohol consumption levels can all help to prevent attacks of gout.