Guide To Colchicine

Precautions To Remember

Colchicine may not be safe for kidney or liver disease patients. Individuals should also let their doctor know about any history of heart issues or digestive system problems. In general, colchicine is not prescribed to pregnant or breastfeeding women. Typically, women are only offered colchicine if they are using contraception. This medicine could reduce fertility for males. Thus, men should talk with their doctor about this risk. Individuals with low blood platelet counts, low red blood cells, low white blood cells, or issues with bone marrow function may not be able to take this medication. Colchicine can cause temporary decreases in platelets and white blood cells. These decreases could place patients at an increased risk for infections and easy bruising.

Patients will need regular blood tests, especially if they need to take this medication for a prolonged period. Individuals who experience decreases in platelets or white blood cells may be advised to avoid contact with individuals who have infections. It is also essential to avoid contact sports to reduce the risk of bruising. All patients taking this medication should avoid eating grapefruit and drinking grapefruit juice. The reason is that grapefruit can increase the concentration of colchicine in the body, which could increase the risk of side effects. Patients may take this medication with or without food. However, taking it with food tends to reduce stomach discomfort.