From the Guidelines
Normal uric acid levels in adults typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL for men and 2.6 to 6.0 mg/dL for women. These levels may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and testing method used 1. Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods and are also made naturally by the body. The kidneys filter uric acid from the blood and excrete it in urine. When uric acid levels become too high (hyperuricemia), it can lead to conditions like gout or kidney stones. Factors that can affect uric acid levels include diet (especially consumption of purine-rich foods like red meat, organ meats, and seafood), alcohol intake, certain medications, obesity, and kidney function. If you're concerned about your uric acid levels, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can interpret your results in the context of your overall health and recommend appropriate lifestyle changes or medications if necessary.
Some key points to consider:
- The American College of Rheumatology guidelines suggest a threshold of less than 6.0 mg/dL for some patients to improve signs and symptoms of gout 1.
- The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommends a serum uric acid level of less than 6 mg/dL (360 mmol/L) as a convenient cut-off point for a risk factor for gout 1.
- A study found that once gout has been asymptomatic for 5 years, urate-lowering therapy might be discontinued for many years as long as serum urate levels remain acceptable (for example, <7 mg/dL) 1.
It's crucial to note that these levels may vary depending on individual factors, and a healthcare provider should be consulted to determine the best course of action for each patient. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoidance of alcohol and sugar-sweetened drinks, and regular exercise can help manage uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The upper limit of normal is about 7 mg/dL for men and postmenopausal women and 6 mg/dL for premenopausal women.
Normal uric acid levels are usually considered to be:
- Less than or equal to 7 mg/dL for men and postmenopausal women
- Less than or equal to 6 mg/dL for premenopausal women 2
From the Research
Normal Uric Acid Levels
Normal uric acid levels vary based on factors such as age, sex, and menopausal status.
- For adult males and postmenopausal women, normal serum uric acid levels are between 3.5 and 7.2 mg/dL 3.
- For premenopausal women, normal serum uric acid levels are between 2.6 and 6.0 mg/dL 3. However, considering the potential pathophysiological role of uric acid in various diseases, a threshold value < 6.0 mg/dL (< 360 µmol/L) may better identify true "healthy subjects" 3.
Factors Influencing Uric Acid Levels
Several factors can influence uric acid levels, including:
- Diet and lifestyle
- Kidney function
- Certain medical conditions, such as gout or chronic kidney disease
- Use of certain medications, such as allopurinol or febuxostat 4, 5, 6
Uric Acid and Disease
Uric acid has been linked to various diseases, including: