 Colchicine oral is an anti-inflammatory drug used primarily to treat inflammation
of the joints caused by gout. Colchicine will not prevent the progression of gout
and is useful only in decreasing attacks and in relieving pain and discomfort.
Other (off label) uses include: treatment of arthritis in the fingers and toes due
to Sarcoidosis, (a chronic inflammatory disorder), other joint disease which may
include acute arthritis and hardening of the liver caused by alcohol abuse.
Common brand names include: Colgout. Colchicine is also sold in combination with other drugs,
such as Probenecid, labelled Colbenemid or Proben-C (Probenecid and Colchicine).
Ordering options for Colchicine, including Colgout are below.
No prescription is needed, but some pharmacies will require a consultation via questionnaire to
enable their staff physician to issue a prescription (this is a free consultation).
Other pharmacies do not require a consultation (no consultation needed)*
Click Here to View More Popular Pain Medications
More about Colchicine Oral
Colchicine was originally extracted from the autumn crocus but is now synthesized, it binds to
a substance (tubulin) found in white blood cells. Gout is caused by a build up of crystals of uric
acid which are deposited in certain joints. White blood cells migrate to the areas of the body
where uric acid has been deposited and attempt to engulf the crystals. This causes lactic acid
and pro-inflammatory enzymes to be released. These substances cause the pain and swelling
of gout. Colchicine inhibits the migration of the white blood cells into the inflamed area, which
results in a reduction in pain and inflammation.
Precautions
Colchicine can damage the bone marrow causing severe anemia and seriously low white blood
counts, which increases the risk of infections. Patients using colchicine long-term require blood count monitoring. Also notify your doctor if you experience any of the following:
skin rash, sore throat, fever, unusual bleeding, bruising, tiredness, weakness, numbness or
tingling. These symptoms could be early signs of a serious side effect.
Common Colchicine Side Effects
The most common side effects of colchicine include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and
diarrhea. Colchicine can also cause hair loss, weakness and nerve irritation.
|
