Gout and OTC drugs

Dear Danny,

Yes, over the counter nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications like naproxen (Alleve) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Nuprin) can reduce the inflammation of gout quite effectively if the dose is high enough.  Patients taking NSAIDs should consult with their doctors, however, to make sure that their kidney function is normal and that their medical histories don't include any other contraindications to taking these medications.