Corticotropin for acute management of gout.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate safety and efficacy of corticotropin for acute gout.


METHODS
Clinical literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-August 2000). Key search terms included gout, ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and corticotropin.


RESULTS
Joint pain and local signs of inflammation characterize gout. Acutely, colchicine and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are first-line therapy. Adverse effects or concomitant diseases limit therapy and necessitate alternative options. An evaluation of studies involving corticotropin was conducted.


CONCLUSIONS
Corticotropin alone or in combination with colchicine was more rapidly effective and associated with fewer adverse effects than indomethacin. This regimen may be considered an alternative, especially for patients with medical problems in which other regimens are contraindicated.
Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, AL, USA. ctaylor@cchs.ua.edu
C T
CT
Taylor
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NC
Brooks
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Kelley
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006073:Gout / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D013256:Steroids
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D013256:Steroids; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone