Uses of Colchicine

Colchine is a prescription medicine formulated to treat bouts of acute gouty arthritis and gout. The drug is not an analgesic. However, it still manages to alleviate the pain caused by gout by suppressing inflammation.

Colchicine is taken every hour until the pain is gone. The dosage taken each time is between 0.6 mg to 1.2 mg. The drug should be swallowed with a full glass of water and even with some food. Colchicine should be taken every day or every 3 to 4 days at 0.6 mg doses to prevent future attacks of gout. If an acute or serious attack occurs, a stronger dose of 4-8mg is recommended.

Safety Guidelines & Possible Side Effects

If you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need to talk to your doctor before taking Colchicine. The drug may have harmful effects on the unborn or nursing baby.

Colchicine may produce side effects such as breathing difficulty, tightening of the throat, fever, numbness, rash, tingling and the swelling of the lips, tongue or face.

Missed Dose

In case of a missed dose, take it as soon as you remember about it. However, skip it completely if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Double dosing is not advised.

Storage

The drug must be kept in a container at room temperature. It must be kept away from heat and moisture. Make sure you store it out of the reach of children.

Overdose

It is rare for a patient to overdose on Colchicine. If it does occur, you have to go for emergency medical help. Symptoms of a Colchicine overdose are breathing difficulty, burning sensation in the stomach, skin and throat, delirium, diarrhea, muscle weakness, nausea, seizures, stomach pain and vomiting.

More Information

During your consultation with your doctor, inform him about all the medications you are taking. Some may not be advisable to take with Colchicine because of possible drug interactions.