Convenient access to gout Treatments With GP24.

Our prescription service costs €25.

This service is available to patients anywhere in Republic of Ireland.

Yes - this service is based on the same patient-doctor confidentiality that you would expect in a face-to-face consultation.

If you’re not entirely sure about your condition and have not had a previous prescription, it is recommended that you first chat with our doctor using either our Video Consultation or Phone consultation services first.

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense joint pain, most commonly in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming sharp crystals in the joints. This can lead to swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness—often described as feeling like the joint is on fire.

While the big toe is the most affected, gout can also impact the ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows. Flares usually last 5 to 7 days and may come and go over time. Gout is more common in men and becomes more likely with age.

Effective treatment can relieve pain quickly and help prevent future attacks. Prescription options and lifestyle changes are key to managing gout long-term.

Gout is triggered by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints. This happens when the body produces too much uric acid or can’t remove enough of it through the kidneys. The result is painful inflammation, often in the big toe or other joints.

Uric acid is created when the body breaks down purines—substances found in many foods. Eating too many purine-rich foods, such as red meat, organ meats (like liver), seafood, sugary drinks, and alcohol, can raise uric acid levels.

Other risk factors include obesity, kidney problems, certain medications, heavy alcohol use, and a family history of gout. However, not everyone with high uric acid levels will develop gout.

At GP24.ie, you can easily request prescriptions for effective gout treatments to manage both sudden flare-ups and long-term prevention. 

For rapid relief during gout attacks, over-the-counter options like paracetamol and ibuprofen (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. While these do not require a prescription, our GPs can prescribe medications such as colchicine for faster and targeted relief during flare-ups. 

For ongoing gout management and prevention of future attacks, we offer prescription treatments for an acute attack, helping reduce the risk of joint damage and improve long-term control of your condition. Our GPs may also provide lifestyle advice to support your health. 

 
All prescription requests are reviewed by our experienced GPs who will issue them if clinically appropriate, making gout treatment safe and convenient from home. 

You may be eligible to request gout treatment through GP24.ie if you: 

• Are over 18 years of age 

• Have been previously diagnosed with gout by a healthcare professional 

• Need a repeat prescription for commonly prescribed gout medication 

• Are not currently experiencing a severe flare-up or medical emergency 

 
Please note: This service is not suitable for initial diagnosis of gout or for managing uncontrolled symptoms. If you are experiencing a sudden, intense gout flare or severe joint pain, please seek urgent medical attention. 

Yes, like many medications, those used to treat gout can have side effects. These vary depending on whether the treatment is for short-term relief or long-term prevention. 

Medications used during a gout flare, such as colchicine, may cause nausea, diarrhoea, or stomach pain—especially at higher doses. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can sometimes lead to stomach irritation or increased blood pressure if used frequently. 

Long-term treatments like allopurinol or febuxostat, which help lower uric acid levels, can occasionally cause rashes, headaches, or digestive issues. Rarely, more serious side effects may occur, so it's important to speak with a healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual. 

While side effects are possible, many people tolerate these medications well—especially when taken as prescribed and monitored by a doctor. If you’re unsure about a medication or experience side effects, always consult your GP or pharmacist. 

Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately. You can also contact us for follow-up support or guidance from one of our GPs.

Complete an Online Questionnaire: Fill out a secure, confidential medical assessment form detailing your symptoms and health history

Medical Review: An Irish-registered doctor will review your information to determine if treatment is appropriate for you

Prescription Issuance: If suitable, a prescription will be sent directly to your chosen Irish pharmacy via secure Healthmail

Yes. To ensure your safety, you’ll need to complete a confidential health questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a Doctor before any prescription is issued.

Your medical information is reviewed only by Irish Medical Council Registered Doctors and is handled in line with GDPR and Irish data protection laws.

Your prescription will be sent electronically via the Healthmail system to the Irish pharmacy of your choice - you can nominate any pharmacy in Ireland to receive your prescription

Once your medical questionnaire is submitted, prescriptions are typically issued within 24 hours.

(Please note this may vary on weekends)