Colchicine General Information

Colchicines are a drug used to treat and relieve pain from acute gouty arthritis. Colchicines may also be used to treat other conditions like familial Mediterranean fever etc.

Colchicines Uses

Colchicines are used to reduce and suppress the pain resulting from inflammation of gout. A gout attack is when the joints swell up due to deposition of uric acid at the joints and results in pain and inhibits movement of joint. This is also known as acute gouty arthritis or gout. Colchicines possibly act on reducing and dissolving the uric acid although the exact mechanism of Colchicines is not known. It will reduce the pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints however it should be noted that it will not decrease the uric acid level in the blood.
It does not cure gout and is not a pain reliever that can be used ordinarily and is to be used only if prescribed by doctor for other pains. Contact your pharmacist or doctor to get information about the usage of Colchicines.

How to take Colchicines?

It is important that you take the drug only as prescribed by your doctor as undue dosage of Colchicines may result in severe side effects or even possible death. Large amounts of Colchicines are seriously discouraged and not recommended.
The dose of Colchicines for gout and Mediterranean fever are different so it depends on your condition. Do not take dose of Colchicines at your will and remember to follow the directions as given on the prescription label.Colchicine can be taken with an empty stomach or with food.
It is strongly recommended to take colchicines on the first symptom of a gout attack as it works best then. It will start losing its effect if you wait for too long. In case you are still experiencing gout pain you may take a lower dose of colchicines 1 hour after the first dose.
In case colchicines are used over a long period of time, you may have to get regular blood tests.

Colchicines Warnings

The patient should not use this medication if he/she is allergic to colchicines. There are other drugs that can affect colchicines so do not use this medication if you are using them. It is recommended that the patient not take colchicines of the patient has liver or kidney disease. Do not take colchicines if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, a stomach ulcer, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, intestinal bleeding or other such disorders.
You should discuss taking colchicines if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during that year. Do not use colchicines if you are breast-feeding with your doctor's consent.

Colchicines Missed Dose

In case the patient has missed a dose of colchicines, it is recommended to take it immediately. However, if it is time for the next dose then patient should wait and take the second dose. It is strongly discouraged to take extra medicine and make up for the dose that has been missed.

Colchicines side effects

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any allergic reaction, difficulty in breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat. You may also face lesser serious side effects like mild nausea, stomach pain or mild diarrhea.
There may be other side effects to colchicines other than those listed above. Contact your doctor immediately in case of side effects.

Colchicines Storage Advice

Store colchicines at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Colchicines Overdose

Get emergency medical attention if you feel you have taken an overdose of colchicines. Symptoms of overdose of colchicines include nausea, diarrhea, heart pain, stomach burn our burning feeling in your throat or stomach. Seek immediate help because an overdose of colchicines can be fatal.

Where can I get more information?

More information and details can be known by contact with your doctor or your pharmacist.