• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info
• Interactions

How should I take colchicine?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

To treat a gout attack, for best results take colchicine at the first sign of the attack. The longer you wait to start taking the medication, the less effective it may be.

Colchicine is usually taken every 2 hours until you feel relief from pain or until the medication causes side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.

To prevent gout attacks, colchicine may be taken every day or several days a week. Follow your doctor's instructions.

If you use this medication over a long period of time, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of colchicine can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include diarrhea (may be bloody and severe), nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, heartburn, a burning feeling in your throat or stomach, muscle weakness, urinating less than usual, numbness or tingling, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking colchicine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using colchicine.

What are the possible side effects of colchicine?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe vomiting or diarrhea;

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling;

• blood in your urine; or

• urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild nausea or stomach pain;

• mild diarrhea;

• muscle pain; or

• hair loss.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect colchicine?

There may be other drugs that can interact with colchicine. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about colchicine.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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