Infusion Therapy for Gout Q&A

More than 100 types of arthritis exist, and while they all affect joints, they have different causes, risks, and effects on different people. Excess uric acid in the bloodstream causes gout, one of the most common types of arthritis. Most commonly, it affects the base of the big toe on the foot. People with diabetes, poor kidney function, and other underlying health conditions are more likely to be affected.

Medication can be used to manage gout, but there is no cure. There are, however, some patients for whom oral medications fail to provide the relief they were expecting. Infusion therapy offers a safe and effective alternative in such cases.

Infusion therapy involves injecting medication into a vein in your arm through an IV line. In addition to treating current gout attacks, it can reduce the risk of future flare-ups and/or complications, including tophi.

Infusion therapy is the ideal option for patients whose chronic health conditions make swallowing medication difficult, uncomfortable, or impossible. Patients who have been unresponsive to oral medications may also benefit from this therapy.

The best IV therapy for gout may depend on a variety of factors and will be determined by your provider at Jean Walter Infusion.

Krystexxa, or pegloticase, is an excellent option for individuals with serious cases of gout. Adults with gout can use Krystexxa to help reduce their symptoms of gout which cannot be controlled by other treatments used to lower blood uric acid levels. 

Purines are the sources of uric acid. Purines are mostly found inside the body, but they can also be found in food and drinks. When adults have gout, Krystexxa prevents their bodies from converting purines into uric acid. Entyvio may also be used to treat certain cases of gout.

Infusion therapy is a highly effective option to avoid or mitigate the symptoms of gout. A needle is injected directly into the arm of the patient to administer the medication. Medications, antibiotics, and/or hydration are delivered directly into the bloodstream, making it much more efficient for treating chronic illnesses. Thus, there is a higher absorption rate, and you can get relief more quickly.

There are a whole host of benefits associated with electing to undergo infusion therapy for gout. You can prevent the pain associated with gout from getting worse. The benefits of IV therapy for gout are rapid and you will feel better more quickly than if you took oral medication. It is possible to prevent gout from keeping you from working or participating in recreational activities. Gout flare-ups can be prevented.

There are times when people with gout can predict when they are about to experience a flare-up. We can help you prevent that from happening. With IV therapy, we can help you avoid the worst side effects of gout.

Infusion therapy for gout is a typically safe option and can benefit almost anyone seeking relief from the symptoms of gout. It is particularly suitable for patients who wish to avoid or have trouble swallowing orally-administered medication. Patients can speak to staff at Jean Walter Infusion to assess their suitability for this treatment and discuss any potential risks involved. Even though there are some risks, they are minor, compared to the benefits. There is a possibility of getting an infection at the injection site where an IV needle is inserted. Additionally, the IV could dislodge from the vein, allowing fluid to enter the surrounding tissues. In order to prevent or reduce swelling, a healthcare professional can reinsert your IV correctly and apply a warm compress. Staff at Jean Walter Infusion will carefully monitor the infusion therapy to prevent any issues.

At Jean Walter Infusion Center, you may learn about gout symptoms and treatments. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Rosedale MD, Baltimore MD, Columbia MD, Glen Burnie MD, Catonsville MD, Edgewater MD, North Baltimore, Parkville MD, Middle River MD, Dundalk MD, Halethrope MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Hebbville MD, and Woodlawn MD.