Why is this medication prescribed?  

Colchicine relieves swelling and pain caused by attacks of gout or gouty arthritis. It may also be taken regularly to prevent gout or gouty arthritis attacks.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?  

Colchicine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take colchicine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

If you are taking colchicine to relieve gout attack symptoms, start taking it at the first sign of pain. Relief usually begins within 12 hours, and symptoms disappear within 48-72 hours. This medicine will not be fully effective if you do not take it as soon as you feel pain.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?  

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose  

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to colchicine.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.