Colchicine is an alkaloid obtained from Colchicum autumnale, known more often as a spice used in cooking - saffron. What is the use of colchicine? How should it be properly dosed? Precautions recommended when using colchicine.

Colchicine - action

The main mechanism of action of colchicine is the depolymerization of microtubules, which leads to inhibition of the cell cycle, but also inhibition of the mobility, division and production of chemokines and IL-1 by neutrophils. This mechanism of action is therefore indicative of the anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects of colchicine.

Colchicine - indications for use

Due to too high toxicity at doses necessary for cancer treatment, colchicine is not used in this direction.

Colchicine does not affect the concentration of uric acid in the blood and tissues, but the main indication for its use is the treatment of a disease whose main cause is its precipitation in the tissues - gout (gout).

Additionally, colchicine is used in the treatment of inflammatory cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, pericarditis). It reduces the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events, reduces the risk of recurrence of pericarditis or atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery.

Other effects of colchicine include inhibiting the conversion of procollagen into collagen and preventing inflammation caused by calcium deposits.

Colchicine - dosage

Dosage of colchicine in the treatment of acute gout attack consists in the administration of a dose of the preparation corresponding to 1 mg of colchicine, and after an hour, administration of a dose corresponding to 0.5 mg of colchicine. If symptoms persist, the dose corresponding to 0.5 mg colchicine should be repeated. On the following day, three times the dose corresponding to 0.5 mg of colchicine should be administered.

Acute gout attacks are prevented by taking a dose equivalent to 0.5 mg of colchicine once or twice a day.

Colchicine - precautions and side effects

Dose reduction is necessary in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. Also taking medications such as:clarithromycin, erythromycin, cyclosporine, disulfiram, ketoconazole, verapamil, statins or fibrates should be reduced in dose, as the simultaneous use of these drugs with colchicine may increase its concentration in the blood and increase the risk of serious side effects. Bone marrow disorders, myopathy, and rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of skeletal muscle) may occur.

The above-mentioned side effects are rare. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and colchicine should be discontinued if they occur.

Dizziness may occur, so be careful when driving or operating machines.

Colchicine may reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.

Colchicine - contraindications

Contraindications to the use of colchicine are:

  • severe renal or hepatic insufficiency
  • pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • incorrect blood composition

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