Colchicine
Colchicine reduces inflammation caused by crystal and immune-cell activity. It has a narrow safety margin, and overdose or interacting medicines can be fatal.
Colchicum Autumnale
Gout
0.5mg
Colchicine 0.5mg tablets, used for gout. It blocks tubulin polymerisation, so neutrophils do not migrate into the inflamed joint.
Key points
- Colchicine can treat or help prevent selected gout flares but does not lower uric acid.
- Kidney or liver impairment and strong enzyme or transporter inhibitors can markedly increase toxicity.
- Diarrhoea, vomiting or abdominal pain can be early toxicity signs rather than harmless effects.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on the indication, kidney and liver function, prescription, interaction and pharmacy checks.
What colchicine is used for
Colchicine may be used for acute or preventive management of gout and selected specialist-managed inflammatory conditions. The treatment plan differs by purpose.
How it works
Colchicine disrupts microtubule activity in inflammatory cells, reducing the response to urate crystals. It is not a conventional painkiller.
Important safety checks
Review kidney and liver function, blood disorders, pregnancy and every medicine, especially certain macrolide antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals and statins. Never repeat treatment beyond the prescribed plan.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for suspected overdose, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, marked abdominal pain, muscle weakness or pain, numbness, unusual bruising, fever, very little urine, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.
Further reading
Related articles
Understand the different roles of colchicine, NSAIDs and corticosteroids for flares versus allopurinol and febuxostat for urate lowering.
Read guide