Gout is a condition that can be life-threatening and can cause unbearable pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, especially the big toe. Has your doctor prescribed you a medication called Colchicine to control this pain or prevent it from recurring? So, today we will simply talk about how to use this medication, what it can do, and what to be careful about.
What is Colchicine?
Simply put, colchicine is a medication that is used to prevent gout flare-ups. It is also sometimes used to control gout attacks once they have started.
This is what happens. When our body builds up a chemical called uric acid, its crystals deposit in our joints. This is what causes inflammation, swelling, and severe pain in the joints. Colchicine works by reducing that inflammation and reducing the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints. It controls the symptoms of gout.
The important thing is, this is not a painkiller. It controls inflammation specific to gout.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
For your safety, it is very important to discuss these things clearly with your doctor before you start using colchicine.
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have liver disease .
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to colchicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant , or are expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether or not this medication is suitable for you and how to give it.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
Keep these points in mind when using this medicine.
- Take this medicine with a glass of water .
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the amount prescribed . Never increase or decrease the dose as you see fit.
- You can take this before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach discomfort or heartburn after taking the medicine, take it with food.
- If you are over 65 years of age, the effects of the medicine may be a little greater. Therefore, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose. Follow the instructions exactly.
- This medicine is for you only . Never give the medicine prescribed for you to someone else, even if they have the same symptoms.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if I take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Do not take this lightly, as taking too much colchicine can be very dangerous.
Other things that may interact with colchicine (Interactions)
Colchicine is a drug that can interact with other medications and certain foods. Therefore, if you are taking this medication, you should be very careful about the following things.
| Things that may interact with colchicine | |
|---|---|
| Things that should never be taken together | |
| Some antiviral drugs for HIV or hepatitis | These may increase colchicine levels in the body to dangerous levels. |
| Things to use with caution and inform the doctor about | |
| Grapefruit or grapefruit juice | These may unnecessarily increase the effects of colchicine. |
| Some antibiotics | E.g.: Erythromycin, Clarithromycin |
| Some cholesterol-lowering medications | For example: Statins such as Atorvastatin and Simvastatin |
| Antifungal medications | E.g. Ketoconazole, Itraconazole |
| Some medications for heart disease and high blood pressure | Inform your doctor about these. |
| Cyclosporine | A drug that controls immunity. |
This list is not complete. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements) . Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Side effects that may occur when taking the medicine
Like any medication, colchicine can cause side effects. Some are minor, but others require immediate attention.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Muscle injury | Unusual weakness, muscle pain, dark yellow or brown urine. |
| Unusual bleeding or bruising | Bleeding that doesn't stop even from a small wound, and blue spots appearing on the skin. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds. |
| Nerve problems | Numbness, pain, or loss of sensation in the limbs. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (diarrhea). |
Other things to consider
- Vitamin B12: Long-term use of colchicine may reduce the body's absorption of vitamin B12. Therefore, talk to your doctor about eating foods rich in vitamin B12 (fish, meat, milk) and taking a vitamin supplement if necessary.
- Regular check-ups: Go to clinics at regular intervals as prescribed by your doctor and check your condition.
Take-Home Message
- Colchicine is a medication that controls the inflammation of gout, not a general painkiller.
- Always follow the dosage and instructions prescribed by your doctor. Never change the dosage yourself.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially cholesterol, antibiotics, and antifungals.
- Avoid drinking grapes or grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.
- If you experience any severe side effects such as muscle pain, unusual bruising, or fever, seek medical advice immediately.
- Store this medicine in a safe place, away from light and moisture, out of the reach of children and pets.
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