Colcrys (Colchicine) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Colcrys (colchicine) Indications

Colcrys, generic name colchicine, is an oral medication used for the treatment of gout flares. Gout flare is the main symptom of gout, which causes sudden and severe pain in one or multiple joints, usually the big toe.

Colcrys is also prescribed for adults and children 4 years of age and older who have Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF).

Colcrys should not be used as a pain medication and it should not be taken for pain due to other causes.

Colcrys is classified as an alkaloid. It interferes with the intracellular assembly of the inflammasome complex, which is responsible for inflammatory responses. Additionally, Colcrys disrupts cytoskeletal functions through tubulin disruption. It decreases the build-up of uric acid crystals in joints and mitigates swelling.

Colcrys (colchicine) Uses and Dosage

Read the medication guide before taking Colcrys. Always take this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

The administration of Colcrys differs depending on why it is prescribed. If prescribed for a gout flare, then take two tablets at the first sign of gout flare, followed by a single tablet one hour later. For FMF, the total daily dose is given once or twice daily. Do not modify the dosage prescribed by the doctor.

Colcrys is taken by mouth with a glass of water and with or without food.

Colcrys (colchicine) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Colcrys are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Abdominal pain

If these side effects persist or worsen, then consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

Some of the severe adverse effects of Colcrys are:

• Numbness/tingling in fingers or toes
• Hair loss
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe dizziness
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle pain
• Anemia
• Leukopenia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Low sperm count
• Elevated liver function tests

If these adverse reactions occur, then please report to the prescribing physician immediately.

Allergic Reactions

Do not take Colcrys if you have a known allergy to colchicine or any contents that this medication may contain. Seek emergency assistance if an allergy develops while using this medication. Signs of an allergy include:

• Hives
• Itching
• Rashes
• Trouble breathing
• Wheezing
• Swelling of the face and neck
• Severe dizziness
• Swollen lymph nodes

Colcrys (colchicine) Cautions

Taking Colcrys may be contraindicated in people with:

• Kidney problems
• Liver disease

When taking Colcrys, avoid grapefruit or any food or beverages that contain grapefruit. Grapefruit could elevate the level of colchicine in the system.

The effects of Colcrys during pregnancy have not been fully determined. Therefore, know all the risks if planning to get pregnant prior to taking this medication.

Colcrys can pass through breast milk. However, there are currently no known reports of this medication causing harm to breastfed babies.

Colcrys (colchicine) Form and Strength

Colcrys is available in the following strengths:

• Colcrys, tablet
  • 6 mg
• Colchicine, tablets
  • 5 mg*
  • 6 mg

*0.5mg is not available in the United States but is available from other countries.

FAQ

How quickly does Colcrys work?

Colcrys can work as early as an hour after taking. If it does not relieve symptoms after a few doses, you must consult your doctor.

How long should I take Colcrys for gout?

It only takes a few doses to relieve gout flares. Do not take more doses than prescribed unless your physician approves.

Can Colcrys be taken daily?

For the treatment of FMF, Colcrys may be taken daily for a specific time period. Do not take it longer than prescribed.

Is Colcrys harmful to the kidneys?

Generally, taking Colcrys is safe. In some rare cases, colchicine intoxication can cause renal failure. This usually only occurs with an overdose of the medication.

Resources

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/022351lbl.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152819/colcrys-oral/details