Abstract
Objective To describe patients' perspectives and experiences of medications for gout to inform patient-centred practice.
Methods Systematic review (MEDLINE, Embase, PsychInfo, CINAHL) and thematic analysis of studies using qualitative methodology to May 2023.
Results Five dominant themes were identified in 45 studies involving 1203 patients:- denying illness, negotiating uncertainty, juggling competing priorities, avoiding suffering and lifestyle restrictions, and developing strategies and empowerment.
Conclusion Patients with gout wanted to avoid suffering and lifestyle restrictions but were concerned with stigmatisation and had uncertainty about medications. Comprehensive information about the disease and reframing the role of the different medications is needed to overcome the barriers to adherence to available and effective treatment. Our results highlight the fundamental importance of maintaining a patient-centred focus and include some avenues of how clinicians may redefine their approach to gout management.
