US FDA has given approval to Uloric by Takeda Pharma for treatment of gout.

Patients of gout suffer from a painful condition with high levels of uric acid that can build up in the blood, joints and soft tissue.

According to Takeda, the Japanese drug maker, Uloric is the first new treatment option in more than four decades for gout. More than 5 million Americans are affected by the disease which causes inflammatory arthritis in men 40 and older.

More than 4000 people were involved in the clinical trials of the drug. The most common side effects reported were liver function abnormalities, nausea, joint pain and rash.

FDA has approved the drug in 40 mg. and 80 mg. strengths though Takeda had requested for approval of 80 mg and 120 mg versions. The drug is administered orally once a day. It works by managing the uric acid levels by blocking an enzyme called xanthine oxidase.