Gout-like arthritis following cimetidine and ranitidine

A case report is presented of a patient having a history of gouty arthritic attacks who suffered similar attacks subsequent to receiving cimetidine and ranitidine. The patient was rechallenged twice with each drug and reacted on each occasion. During the therapy with H2-receptor antagonists, he suffered no attacks that were not immediately preceded by one of these drugs. It is suggested that alternate forms of therapy such as antacids, sucralfate, or carbenoxalone may be preferable in patients suffering from ulcers and gouty arthritic problems.