Colchicine
Bones, joints, and goutAlso known as Colcrys
Colchicine treats gout flares by calming the inflammation around uric acid crystals. It works best when you start at the very first twinge — waiting until the joint is on fire gives it a much harder job. The most important thing to understand: more is genuinely dangerous. Taking extra doesn't help faster; an overdose is life-threatening. Take it exactly as prescribed, and not one tablet more.
How to take it
When
At the first twinge of a flare — early beats strong. Follow your exact prescription.
Food
No grapefruit or grapefruit juice — it raises colchicine to dangerous levels.
Avoid
NEVER take extra doses. Certain antibiotics also raise its level dangerously — check with the pharmacist.
Good to know
Diarrhea or nausea is your signal you've had enough — call before taking any more.
Missed a dose?
If you take it daily for prevention, take the missed dose when you remember unless the next one is close — then skip it. Never double up.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea — the most common one
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
Call a doctor if
- Muscle pain or weakness — call the doctor (rare muscle damage)
- Numbness or tingling in fingers or toes — call the doctor
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea that won't stop — call before taking any more
- Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection like fever and sore throat — get help now