Things To Know About Colchicine
The medication Colchicine is also available as a generic drug. Usually, generic drugs cost less, when compared to prescription medication. The drug Colchicine is obtainable in capsule form. Colchicine is used to treat Mediterranean fever that can result in inflammation in the abdomen, joints, and lungs alongside treating gout.
Warnings When Taking Colchicine
Overdose Warning
Taking too much colchicine can be dangerous and may even lead to death. Hence, patients are advised to consume it as per the dosage prescribed by medical practitioners.
Muscle Damage
Colchicine can cause serious damage to your muscles if it is taken for more than six months. The risk can be even more if you are residing in a senior living facility. In addition, taking other medications that can result in muscle damage can increase the risk. For instance, cholesterol medication is one such medication that can lead to muscle damage. So, talk with your doctor before taking colchicine.
Blood Disorders
It is found that taking colchicine can make your body produce lesser blood cells of various types, thereby increasing your risk of bleeding or infection. This is because some of these blood cells help clot blood and some others help fight infection. If you are suffering from any type of blood disorder, you need to discuss the same with your doctor.
How Is Colchicine Used?
Colchicine can be used alone or as part of combination therapy, in which you may have to take it with other medicines. This medicine falls under the category of anti-gout medications. A class of drugs includes medications that have similar effects on the body and will be often used to treat similar conditions.
However, the potential health benefits of the drug are not fully understood by the medical world. Experts believe that the medication might prevent some of the immune cells in our body from causing inflammation and pain.
Side Effects Of Colchicine
Colchicine tablets will not lead to drowsiness, but some other side effects are associated with colchicine use. These are:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
These reactions of the medication can be mild and may subside in a few days. However, if they are severe, you need to discuss the same with your pharmacist or doctor.
Taking Colchicine
The dosage of Colchicine, frequency of use, and the drug form will depend on, the condition that is being treated, the severity of the condition, other medical conditions that you may be suffering from, and your reaction to the first dose of Colchicine.