Colchicine – Specialized anti-inflammatory for gout treatment and prevention.
Get expert medical advice and same-day prescriptions from qualified UK doctors through our secure online consultation platform.
- Professional online consultation and prescription
- Same-day service when clinically appropriate
- Secure delivery to your chosen pharmacy
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What is Colchicine?
Colchicine is a specialized anti-inflammatory medication that’s particularly effective for gout and related inflammatory conditions. It has a unique mechanism of action that makes it especially valuable for treating acute gout attacks and preventing future episodes.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing joint pain that could be gout, have been diagnosed with gout, or have other inflammatory conditions that may benefit from Colchicine treatment. Our GPs can assess your symptoms and determine if Colchicine is appropriate for your specific condition.
What is Colchicine used for?
- Acute gout attacks
- Gout prevention (prophylaxis)
- Familial Mediterranean fever
- Pericarditis (heart membrane inflammation)
- Behçet's disease
- Prevention of gout flares when starting urate-lowering therapy
How does Colchicine work?
An anti-inflammatory agent that inhibits microtubule formation in neutrophils, reducing their migration to inflamed joints and decreasing the inflammatory response that causes gout pain.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Acute gout: 500 micrograms 2-4 times daily until pain relief. Prevention: 500 micrograms once or twice daily.
Children
Rarely used in children—specialist supervision required for specific conditions.
Important Notes
- Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
- For acute gout: start as soon as possible after symptom onset.
- Reduce dose in kidney or liver problems.
- Maximum 6 mg total dose for acute gout attack.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe diarrhoea and dehydration
- Blood disorders (low blood cell counts)
- Muscle weakness and pain
- Kidney problems
- Liver damage
- Severe allergic reactions
Important Warnings
- Tell your GP if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease—dose adjustment needed.
- Stop taking if severe diarrhoea develops and contact your GP.
- Regular blood tests required for long-term use to monitor blood counts.
- Not suitable for people with severe kidney or liver disease.
- May interact with many medications—tell your GP about all medicines you take.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Statins—increased risk of muscle problems.
- Warfarin—may increase bleeding risk.
- Digoxin—may increase digoxin levels.
- Clarithromycin and erythromycin—may increase colchicine toxicity.
- Grapefruit juice—may increase colchicine levels.
- Ciclosporin—increased risk of kidney and muscle problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Colchicine work for gout?
Colchicine usually starts working within 12-24 hours for acute gout attacks. It's most effective when started as soon as possible after symptoms begin.
Why do I get diarrhoea with Colchicine?
Diarrhoea is a common side effect that often indicates you're approaching the maximum tolerated dose. Taking it with food and starting with lower doses can help.
Can I take Colchicine long-term to prevent gout?
Yes, low-dose Colchicine can be used long-term for gout prevention, especially when starting urate-lowering therapy like Allopurinol.
Should I continue Colchicine if I'm also taking Allopurinol?
Yes, Colchicine is often continued for several months when starting Allopurinol to prevent gout flares that can occur initially.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14