Objective: To review the current literature concerning the treatment of hyperuricemia in patients with gout with novel agents not primarily used for this condition. Data Sources: Computerized MEDWATCH and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts search engines were utilized with the following terms: gout, uric acid, losartan, fenofibrate, sevelamer, febuxostat, and treatment. Bibliographies from key articles were also searched, and all pertinent articles were procured and reviewed. Data Extraction: All available primary literature accounts in English of hyperuricemia treatment with the agents listed above were considered for this review. Pertinent review articles were also utilized. Data Synthesis: Although several drugs effectively treat hyperuricemia in gout, existing agents may not always be effective or well tolerated. Losartan, fenofibrate, and sevelamer have been shown to exert a hypouricemic effect and may be effective adjunct agents for gout, especially in patients with concomitant co-morbid conditions. Additionally, febuxostat, a novel non-purine hypouricemic agent, will soon become available for the treatment of this disorder. Conclusion: As the incidence of gout increases in Western countries the availability of several effective medications for lowering uric acid levels will be necessary. The agents described in this review can be considered in patients with gout, especially if current drugs are ineffective or not tolerated.
Keywords: oxypurinol, Anti-Hyperuricemic Drugs, angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB), Fenofibrate, serum uric acid levels, diuretic