Long-term remission from gout associated with fenofibrate therapy

Short-term studies with fenofibrate, an established treatment for hyperlipidaemia, have shown that its unique side effect of urate lowering is mediated through enhanced renal urate clearance. The long-term effects of fenofibrate on hyperuricaemia and gout have not previously been reported. We report two patients with hyperlipidaemia in association with hyperuricaemia in whom long-term fenofibrate therapy was associated with a sustained reduction in serum urate and lipid levels, together with remission from recurrent attacks of acute gout. The mechanisms involved in these effects and the potential role for fenofibrate in the management of gout are discussed.