Gout Attacks Can Be Prevented by Inhibiting Interleukin-1β

Gout attacks were less frequent in patients who received canakinumab.

Interleukin (IL)-1 is involved in the pathogenesis of gout flares, and small studies have suggested that IL-1 antagonists can suppress or treat gout attacks. In this secondary analysis of data from a recent large study (CANTOS [Canakinumab Anti-Inflammatory Thrombosis Outcomes Study]; NEJM JW Gen Med Oct 1 2017 and N Engl J Med 2017; 377:1119), designed to determine whether the IL-1β inhibitor canakinumab prevents adverse cardiovascular events, researchers explored whether this drug also prevents gout attacks.

More than 10,000 patients received one of three doses of canakinumab or placebo every 3 months for 4 years. Canakinumab did not affect serum uric acid levels but did lower rates of gout attacks significantly (by about 50%, from 3.0% to…

Reviewing Author

Jonathan S. Coblyn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory BoardCVS Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Jonathan S. Coblyn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory BoardCVS Health

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Gout Attacks Can Be Prevented by Inhibiting Interleukin-1β

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Reviewing Author