Has your doctor prescribed you a medicine called 'Colchicine'? Most of the time, it is prescribed because you have a condition like gout that causes your joints to swell and cause severe pain. This is a very effective medicine that many people use. However, like any medicine, there are a few things that we need to be careful about when using this. So today, let's talk about the things you need to know about this medicine called Colchicine.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Colchicine is a medication that is used to control the pain and swelling caused by a condition called gout. When our body builds up a chemical called uric acid , it deposits small, sharp crystals in our joints. It's like having little spikes inside our joints. That's when the joints start to hurt, swell, and become red.
Colchicine works by reducing the inflammation or swelling caused by these crystals in the joints. It also reduces the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints. This helps reduce the pain of gout and prevent frequent flare-ups. Sometimes, doctors may also prescribe it for other conditions.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before prescribing this medicine. Because it greatly affects your safety. Therefore, if you have any of these things, be sure to tell your doctor.
- If you have any kidney disease .
- If you have any liver disease .
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to colchicine, any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Don't hide this information from your doctor. It's essential to get the right treatment.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is a liquid medicine (solution) that you take by mouth. To get the most out of the medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
- Correct dosage: Always take only the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the medicine label carefully.
- Correct measurement: Use a special measuring cup, oral syringe, or dropper provided by your doctor or hospital to measure the medicine. Do not use regular teaspoons or tablespoons that you have at home. They are not accurate and may cause the dose to fluctuate.
- Before or after food?: This medicine can be taken before or after food. However, if you experience stomach discomfort or heartburn after taking the medicine, it is best to take it with a meal.
- On time: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day. Keep a regular interval between doses.
- Stopping: Never stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
- If you are over 65 years old: If you are an older person taking this medicine, the effects on your body may be slightly greater. Therefore, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.
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 when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
This is a matter of great concern . If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) without delay . Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Do not take this lightly, as overdose can be dangerous.
Other things that may interact with Colchicine
It is very important to inform your doctor if you are taking other medications while taking colchicine, as some medications can interact with colchicine and increase side effects.
| Type of things | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Things you should never take | Some antiviral drugs for diseases such as HIV or Hepatitis. |
| Things to be very careful about when taking |
|
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements).
Possible side effects when taking the medicine
Although most people do not experience serious side effects, some may, so it's good to be aware of this.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds. |
| Muscle injury | Unusual weakness, muscle pain, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Nerve problems | Numbness and pain in the limbs. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Unexplained bruising, bleeding from the gums or nose. |
| Tell your doctor if these persist or are bothersome. | |
| Stomach ache | Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- Colchicine is an important medication for gout. Always take the dose prescribed by your doctor at the prescribed time.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice completely while taking this medication.
- If you notice unusual muscle pain, dark urine, bruising, or unusual bleeding, inform your doctor immediately.
- If you take too much medicine, go to a hospital's emergency room (ETU) without delay.
- Avoid stopping your medication without your doctor's advice.
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