Which NSAID can cause hyperuricemia?
**Core Concept**
Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause hyperuricemia by inhibiting the enzyme uricosuric, thus reducing the renal excretion of uric acid.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Indomethacin is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, which in turn reduces the renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). This reduction in GFR leads to decreased excretion of uric acid, resulting in hyperuricemia. Additionally, indomethacin can cause a direct increase in uric acid production by inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is responsible for converting hypoxanthine to xanthine and then to uric acid.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Ibuprofen is another NSAID, but it is less likely to cause hyperuricemia compared to indomethacin. Ibuprofen has a lower potency in inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and does not significantly affect the enzyme xanthine oxidase.
* **Option B:** Aspirin is a weak inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis and is not typically associated with causing hyperuricemia. Aspirin's effects on uric acid metabolism are minimal.
* **Option C:** Naproxen is a NSAID that can cause hyperuricemia, but it is less potent than indomethacin. Naproxen can also inhibit the enzyme uricosuric, but to a lesser extent.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
NSAIDs can cause hyperuricemia by reducing renal excretion of uric acid and increasing its production through the inhibition of xanthine oxidase. This is particularly relevant in patients with pre-existing gout or kidney disease.
**Correct Answer:** C. Naproxen