Indications for Using Colchicine
The use ofC.
autumnalealkaloids for thetreatment of goutdates back to 1810.
Colchicine is not consideredanalgesic(pain-relieving) and does nothing to alter highuric acidlevels associated with gout.
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Colchicine works by binding to a pop in ofwhite blood cellcalled aneutrophil.
By doing so, the cells are unable to migrate to areas where uric acid crystals have accumulated.
This tempers the inflammatory response and, with it, much of the pain.
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Colchicine with uric acid-lowering therapy is continued until uric acid is below 6.0.
The drug should be stopped if there is gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea.
Gout Prevention
Colchicine is also recommended for regular use between attacks for prophylactic (preventive) therapy.
Severe cases may require two or three 0.5 mg or 0.6 mg tablets daily.
Its only approved use in children is for the treatment offamilial Mediterranean fever(FMF).
To decrease side effects, colchicine may be taken with food.
Considerations and Contraindications for Taking Colchicine
Pregnant women must weigh the risks and benefits of colchicine use.
Colchicine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Colchicine can arrest cell division, so it may be a significant risk to take the drug while pregnant.
Caution should also be exercised when colchicine is administered to a woman who is nursing.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Also, people with blood disorders should not use colchicine.
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