Colchicine (By Mouth)

Colchicine (KOL-chi-seen)

Treats gout attacks, gouty arthritis, and other medical problems.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to colchicine. Colchicine should not be taken if you have serious heart, liver, or kidney disease, a severe stomach disorder, or a blood disorder.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. Even if you think the medicine is not working, do not stop taking it or take more than your doctor ordered.
• May be taken with or without food.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, skip the missed dose and take your medicine at your usual time.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking colchicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any cancer medicine, medicine to treat an overactive thyroid, Imuran®, chloramphenicol, Cytoxan®, zidovudine, interferon, ganciclovir, flucytosine, or phenylbutazone.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have heart, liver, or kidney disease, ulcers or other stomach problems, a blood disorder, or alcoholism.
• If you have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea while taking colchicine, stop taking the medicine and call your doctor right away.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Stomach pain or a burning feeling in the stomach or throat
• Bloody urine or a sudden decrease in urine amounts
• Bloody or black tarry stools
• Numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in hands or feet
• Rash, hives, or swelling
• Fever or sore throat
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Hair loss
• Appetite loss

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.