A 55-year-old man presents with sudden onset excruciating pain, redness, and swelling in his left great toe, which started overnight. He consumed alcohol and shellfish at a party yesterday. On examination, the joint is exquisitely tender, warm, and swollen. Serum uric acid is elevated. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacologic treatment for this acute flare?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
For an acute gout flare, the most appropriate initial pharmacologic treatment is typically a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as indomethacin, colchicine, or corticosteroids. Allopurinol, febuxostat, and probenecid are urate-lowering therapies used for chronic management, not acute flares.