As mentioned under "Treatment", long-term drug treatment may be used to reduce the risk of future gout attacks. The decision to use medication in this preventative manner is an individual decision that should be carefully considered, as some medications used for long-term treatment of gout are generally taken for life once initiated. Probenecid, allopurinol, and colchicine are often used for prevention of gout. 

Although some patients have a genetic predisposition to excessive uric acid levels, most gout sufferers have excessive uric acid levels. Gout is often called the "rich man's disease" because alcohol and sweet foods are primary contributors to excessive uric acid levels. A change in diet and lifestyle combined with drug treatment is preferred long term treatment for the prevention of gout attacks.