Drug
Colchicine
Pronounced
"KOL-chi-seen"
Uses
This medication is used to prevent gout attacks (flares). Gout symptoms usually develop suddenly and involve only one or a few joints. The big toe, knee, or ankle joints are most often affected. Gout is caused by too much uric acid in the blood. When uric acid levels in the blood are too high, the uric acid may form hard crystals in your joints. Colchicine works by decreasing swelling and lessening the buildup of uric acid crystals that cause pain in the affected joint(s).
Colchicine is not a pain medication. Do not use it to relieve other causes of pain.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking colchicine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, other medications you may be taking, and response to treatment. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Serious side effects may occur even at usual prescribed doses.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.