Drug Name

Colchicine

Drug Uses

Colchicine is used for treating and preventing pain associated with gouty arthritis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken

Use Colchicine as directed by your doctor.

Take Colchicine by mouth with or without food.

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you use Colchicine.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Colchicine.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Colchicine is an anti-gout agent. It works by decreasing inflammation.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Colchicine and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Colchicine at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Colchicine out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Colchicine if: you are allergic to any ingredient in Colchicine.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important:

Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (e.g., sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Colchicine; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.

Colchicine may cause false-positive results when testing urine for blood or hemoglobin.

If you are taking Colchicine to treat a painful attack of gouty arthritis and you experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, stop taking Colchicine , even if pain continues, unless your doctor directs otherwise.

Lab tests may be performed while you use Colchicine. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Colchicine has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Colchicine while you are pregnant. Colchicine is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Colchicine, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• diarrhea;
• nausea;
• stomach pain;
• vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue);
• fever;
• infection;
• numbness or tingling;
• severe diarrhea;
• sore throat;
• tiredness;
• unusual bleeding or bruising;
• weakness.

More Information

Colchicine is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.