Colchicine tablets are a medication primarily used to treat and prevent acute gout attacks, as well as to treat familial Mediterranean fever. These tablets contain the active ingredient colchicine, which is available in 500 mcg or 1 mg strengths. It has a direct effect on the inflammatory process, making it a valuable option in the management of these chronic conditions.
What are the ingredients in colchicine?
Colchicine tablets contain the following active ingredient:
Colchicine: in 500 mcg or 1 mg strengths.
In addition to this active ingredient, the tablets contain inactive ingredients.
Indications for Use
Colchicine tablets are used to treat:
Acute gout flares: to relieve severe pain and inflammation.
Prevention of recurrent gout attacks: in patients with chronic gout.
Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF): To reduce the frequency and severity of fever and inflammation attacks.
Recurrent Pericarditis: In some cases, to reduce inflammation around the heart.
Treatment aims to control inflammation, relieve pain, and reduce the frequency of attacks in chronic cases.
What is the dosage of colchicine?
Colchicine tablets should be taken as directed by a specialist physician. The dosage and duration of treatment depend largely on the condition being treated, its severity, and the patient's response.
To treat an acute gout attack:
The initial dose is usually 1 mg, followed by 0.5 mg after one hour.
1.5 mg should not be exceeded within one hour.
2 mg should not be exceeded within 24 hours.
Treatment should not be repeated for a new attack for at least 3 days.
To prevent gout attacks: The dose is usually 0.5 mg once or twice daily.
For familial Mediterranean fever: Doses vary depending on age and weight, and are usually 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily in divided doses.
The medication can be taken with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
What are the side effects of colchicine?
Colchicine tablets may cause some side effects, particularly gastrointestinal disturbances, some of which can be serious:
Common side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain: These are the most common side effects and depend on the dose.
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any severe, persistent, or unusual side effects, especially severe diarrhea, signs of infection (fever, sore throat), unexplained bruising, or muscle weakness.