Colchicine
Gout
Colchicine
Gout
Medication features
Colchicine is a medicine that is used to treat a gout attack. It works in a fast and efficient manner to relieve symptoms of an outbreak within a short period. Colchicine tablets neutralise the uric acid crystals that create gout flare-ups. Once the inflammation reduces, you'll feel less pain, making it easier to move around.
- Treatment for gout
- Fast acting
Overview
NOTE: After selecting this product, you will need to complete a short assessment, so we can make sure this medication is suitable for you. Pricing is provided as a reference only. The final decision on issuing this medication remains with our Prescriber / Pharmacist.
Colchicine is a medication used in acute flare-ups of gout. Colchicine is blocks the inflammatory processes, preventing inflammation and reducing pain associated with gout.
The primary advantage of colchicine tablets is how they can neutralise the uric acid crystals that create gout flare-ups. Once the inflammation reduces, you'll feel less pain, making it easier to move around.
Colchicine tablets will reduce your gout symptoms and make the condition more manageable.
FAQ
How long do colchicine tablets take to work?
Colchicine starts to work after around 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, it may take a day or two before you notice your inflammation and pain starts to get better.
How long will I take colchicine tablets for?
For the treatment of gout attacks, you will only use this course of treatment for a few days.
Is it safe to take colchicine tablets for a long time?
It's generally a safe medicine if you take it as directed.
Can I drink alcohol with it?
Yes, you can drink alcohol with colchicine. Alcohol does not affect how this medicine works. However, drinking alcohol increases the level of uric acid in your blood. This could make your gout worse.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
Generally, you can eat and drink as usual while taking colchicine. The only thing you need to avoid is grapefruit and grapefruit juice. This is because grapefruit can increase the amount of colchicine in your blood, creating adverse effects.
Will it improve my symptoms during a gout attack?
The primary advantage of colchicine tablets is how they can neutralise the uric acid crystals that create gout flare-ups. Once the inflammation reduces, you'll feel less pain, making it easier to move around.
Who can take colchicine tablets?
Colchicine is suitable for adults over 18, but doctors might prescribe it for children in exceptional circumstances. However, it can cause some side effects, and you should tell your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following apply to you:
- Have severe kidney or liver problems (renal or hepatic impairment). You might be able to use the medication but with a lower than average dose.
- Had a previous reaction to other medicines.
- Suffer from heart disease or digestive system disorders
- Have a severe blood disorder
- Are (or might be) pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
If you're pregnant, many doctors won't prescribe colchicine tablets, but in rare cases, they will be able to. As there are some risks associated with pregnancy, colchicine might not be a good idea, but your doctor will be able to talk you through them and suggest an alternative solution.
You should also avoid taking it if you're breastfeeding, as while there's no definitive link, it could make your baby sick.
In this case, your doctor will offer anti-inflammatory medications, and you can also use over-the-counter painkillers.
Colchicine shouldn't be mixed with certain medicines, including:
- Antibiotics such as clarithromycin and erythromycin
- HIV medicines including atazanavir and ritonavir
- Any medicines that can impact your blood, kidneys or liver
- Antifungal medicines
- Ciclosporin
- Heart medications, including diltiazem and verapamil
Taking these or other medications doesn't mean you can't use colchicine, but you should consult your doctor first.
Side Effects
Colchicine can cause side effects like any medication, although not everybody experiences them. If you experience the following side effects when taking colchicine, stop the treatment and seek medical attention.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Sore throat
- Unusual bruising
- High temperature
In severe cases, you might have an allergic reaction, which can create a range of symptoms, including:
- Swollen mouth, tongue and lips
- Tight throat and chest (trouble breathing)
- Wheezing
- Itchy skin /other skin problems
- Problems trying to talk
If you experience any of these or other symptoms, you must immediately get to the hospital, as severe allergic reactions can sometimes result in death.
Other
Info Leaflet
Before taking any medicines, whether they are over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
Reviews
Order colchicine from Pharmacy Online
At Pharmacy Online, we offer many prescription treatments to help our patients enjoy life and minimise the effects of their conditions. Gout is notoriously painful and can impact the simplest chores, so you must do what you can to limit the side effects.
While other drugs help with long-term gout, taking colchicine regularly during flare=-ups will make the condition more manageable.
When you shop with us, you get:
- A convenient service
- Support from our dedicated pharmacy team
- Speedy delivery straight to your door
All you have to do, is choose your medication, fill out the assessment and make your payment. Then, we'll deliver the colchicine so that you can prevent gout attacks.
Our healthcare professionals always go the extra mile and will ensure you can take full advantage of our licensed online pharmacy.
Please contact us today if you'd like an online consultation.