What Is Colchicine?

Potential Precautions

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Thus, they should consider talking about their medical history with their doctor first. A history of liver disease, kidney disease, and heart issues may mean that they cannot take colchicine. Other conditions seem to do this as well. Women may not be allowed to take this medication without contraception, as it appears to be unsafe for them if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some men may deal with reduced fertility due to this medication. Other issues that seem to make this medication inappropriate include low white or red blood cells, low platelets, or bone marrow function problems. This medication already seems to lower white blood cells and platelets. Thus, colchicine may put individuals at a higher risk of infection and easy bruising as a result.

Patients may want regular blood tests when they take this medication. Avoiding contact sports and individuals with infections also appears to be helpful. Grapefruit seems to increase colchicine concentration, so patients may want to avoid this fruit or risk more side effects. Individuals may take this medication without food, though doing it with food seems to reduce discomfort in their stomach.

Uncover information on the possible medication interactions next.