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What is this medicine?
COLCHICINE (KOL chi seen) is for joint pain and swelling due to attacks of acute gouty arthritis.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•anemia
•blood disorders like leukemia or lymphoma
•heart disease
•immune system problems
•intestinal disease
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•low platelet counts
•stomach problems
•an unusual or allergic reaction to colchicine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
•clarithromycin
•erythromycin
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
•certain medicines for coughs and colds
•certain medicines to help you breathe better
•cyclosporine
•epinephrine
•medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
•medicines for sleep
•methenamine
•narcotic medicines for pain
•phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
•stimulant medicines for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
•sodium bicarbonate
•vitamin B12
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
Alcohol can increase the chance of getting stomach problems and gout attacks. Do not drink alcohol.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•fever, chills, or sore throat
•muscle weakness
•numbness or tingling in hands or feet
•pain at site where injected
•unusual bleeding or bruising
•unusually weak or tired
•vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•diarrhea
•hair loss
•loss of appetite
•muscle pain or weakness
•stomach pain or nausea
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
