COLCHICINE (KOL chi seen) prevents and treats gout attacks. It may also be used to treat familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). It works by decreasing inflammation and reducing the buildup of uric acid in your joints.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Kidney disease
Liver disease
An unusual or allergic reaction to colchicine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
People 65 years and older may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
This medication may also interact with the following:
Certain antibiotics, such as erythromycin or clarithromycin
Certain medications for blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heartbeat
Certain medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, or simvastatin
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or posaconazole
Cyclosporine
Grapefruit or grapefruit juice
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Infection—fever, chills, cough, sore throat, wounds that don't heal, pain or trouble when passing urine, general feeling of discomfort or being unwell
Muscle injury—unusual weakness or fatigue, muscle pain, dark yellow or brown urine, decrease in the amount of urine
Pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
You should make sure you get enough vitamin B12 while you are taking this medication. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your care team.
This medication may increase your risk to bruise or bleed. Call you care team if you notice any unusual bleeding.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
