What does it do?

Colchicine is used to treat and prevent gout attacks. It is also sometimes used for other conditions such as pericarditis (inflammation around your heart).

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or blood problems, or bowel problems causing diarrhoea.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Long-term use of colchicine may affect fertility in males. Discuss this with your doctor.

How should you take it?

Take colchicine as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.

Short course for gout attacks: If you have taken a course of colchicine for a gout attack in the past 3 days, do not start another course. Contact your doctor to discuss your options.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with colchicine including:

• fluconazole (e.g. Diflucan®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Diarrhoea Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding	May be a sign of too much colchicine. Tell your doctor immediately.
Muscle weakness, tingling or numbness	Tell your doctor

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may react with colchicine. Discuss with your pharmacist.