Colchicine injection
Colchicine injection
What is this medicine?
COLCHICINE (KOL chi seen) is for joint pain and swelling due to attacks of acute gouty arthritis.
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
fever, chills, or sore throat
muscle weakness
numbness or tingling in hands or feet
pain at site where injected
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
hair loss
loss of appetite
muscle pain or weakness
stomach pain or nausea
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
certain medicines for fungal infections like itraconazole
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
alcohol
certain medicines for cholesterol like atorvastatin
certain medicines for coughs and colds
certain medicines to help you breathe better
cyclosporine
digoxin
epinephrine
grapefruit or grapefruit juice
methenamine
other medicines for fungal infection
sodium bicarbonate
some antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, and telithromycin
some medicines for an irregular heartbeat or other heart problems
some medicines for cancer, like lapatinib and tamoxifen
some medicines for HIV
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
anemia
blood disorders like leukemia or lymphoma
heart disease
immune system problems
intestinal disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low platelet counts
stomach problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to colchicine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
Alcohol can increase the chance of getting stomach problems and gout attacks. Do not drink alcohol.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018