Colchicine

Question 1

Colchicine - indications

Answer 1

1. Treatment of acute flares of gout

2. Can be used alongside colchicine to prevent future flares of gout

Question 2

Why is colchicine sometimes given alongside allopurinol in gout patients?

Answer 2

Allopurinol used to prevent future flares of gout

However, it may take several weeks to take effect – therefore you may experience another gout flare up during this period
The risk of triggering an attack may be reduced by co-prescription of an NSAID (e.g.- naproxen) or colchicine (for atleast 1 month after serum uric acid levels normalise) in the initiation phase

Question 3

Colchicine - administration and patient communication

Answer 3

Quantity of colchicine depends on patient and indication

Swallow whole with glass of water - with or after food

Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking colchicine - This is because grapefruit can increase the amount of colchicine in your blood

Question 4

Colchicine - who cannot take it

Answer 4

• severe blood disorder
• severe kidney or liver disorder
• heart or digestive problems
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breastfeeding

Question 5

Colchicine - missed dose

Answer 5

If you forget to take your colchicine, take it as soon as you remember. Unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. In which case, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time.

Never have 2 doses at the same time. Never have an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you.

Question 6

Colchicine - side effects

Answer 6

if patients taking this and gets any side effects tell them to stop taking the medication and report side effects immediately

• nausea/vomiting
• stomach pain
• diarrhoea
• high temperature
• allergic reaction symptoms

Question 7

Lifestyle changes for preventing future attacks of gout

Answer 7

THINGS TO DO
1) get to a healthy weight - try the NHS weight loss plan (exercise + diet)

2) drink plenty of fluids to avoid getting dehydrated

THINGS TO AVOID
1) consumption of shellfish, anchovies, red meat, organ meat (contribute to hyperuricaemia and trigger gout attacks)

2) smoking
3) alcohol (atleast 2 alcohol free days/week)

Question 8

How does colchicine work? And how long does it take to work?

Answer 8

For gout, colchicine works by reducing the inflammation caused by crystals of uric acid in your joints. This also helps to reduce pain.

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.