Which medication is the preferred treatment for preventing recurrence in chronic gout?

Allopurinol is the preferred treatment for preventing recurrence in chronic gout due to its mechanism of action as a xanthine oxidase inhibitor. This medication works by reducing uric acid levels in the blood, preventing the formation of urate crystals that lead to gout attacks. By lowering uric acid levels, allopurinol helps to decrease the frequency of gout flare-ups and can also improve symptoms in patients with chronic gout by addressing the underlying hyperuricemia.

In contrast, probenecid helps prevent gout attacks by increasing the excretion of uric acid in urine, which may not be as effective for all patients, especially those with kidney problems. Colchicine is primarily used for the acute treatment of gout flares rather than for prevention, and while it can help manage gout attacks, it does not address the underlying cause of high uric acid levels. Indomethacin is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain management during acute attacks, but it also does not prevent recurrences of gout. Thus, allopurinol remains the most effective choice for long-term management in chronic gout patients.