What is this medication for?
Colchicine belongs to the family of medications known as anti-gout medications. It is used to relieve pain during an acute attack of gout. It can also be taken to prevent acute gout attacks. If taken at the first sign of an attack, it can help prevent symptoms from getting worse. Symptoms of an acute gout attack may include sudden pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joint.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Colchicine tablets by Watson Pharmaceuticals are available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual dose to relieve symptoms of an acute gout attack or prevent them from getting worse is 0.6 to 1.2 mg, followed by 0.6 mg every hour or 1.2 mg every two hours. This dose is continued until pain is relieved or until you develop diarrhea. Then, the medication can be stopped and should not be started again to treat another gout attack for at least 3 days.
The usual dose to prevent acute gout attacks is 0.6 to 1.8 mg per day on three to seven days of each week. To prevent acute gout attacks during surgery, the recommended dose is 0.6 mg three times a day starting 3 days before surgery and continuing for 3 days afterward.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to colchicine or any ingredients of the medication
- has serious gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines), liver, kidney, blood, or heart conditions
