How to Use Colchicine?
In order to have best and optimum result of this drug it is essential to follow the proper usage instructions. Patients using Colcrys should keep following usage instructions in mind while taking the drug:
- This drug should be taken by mouth with a glass full of water.
- It can be consumed with or without food but if the patients suffer problem of stomach upset then they should take this drug with food.
- This drug does not show immediate result and hence patients should take it on regular basis to have its complete effect.
- Colchicine tablet should not be split, broken or crushed and should be swallowed whole.
- The drug dosage should not be changed by the patients without the consent of the doctor.
Dosages
Colcrys dosages are decided by the doctor depending upon the individual’s age, medical condition for which one is being treated and severity of the problem. The Colcrys dosages for the treatment of different diseases are discussed below:
Dosage for the treatment of Gout Flares:
Patient above the age of 16 years are recommended with 1.2 mg of tablet at the first sign of a flare that is followed by another 0.6 mg tablet after one hour period.
For the treatment of FMF:
Colcrys dose for the treatment of Familial Mediterranean Fever depend upon the patient’s age as described below:
- Children of 4 to 6 years are prescribed with 0.3 to 1.8 mg as daily dose.
- Children of 6 to 12 years of age are prescribed with 0.9 to 1.8 mg in a day.
- Patients above the age of 12 years are prescribed with 1.2 to 2.4 mg in a day.
Missed Dose and Overdose of Drug
On missing a dose of Colchicine, patients can take it as soon as they remember. If it is the time for the next schedule dosage then one should skip the missed dose and resume with the regular dosing schedule. In any case doubling the dose of the drug should be avoided. Overdose of Colchicine is extremely fatal and patients must be cautious while using this drug. If overdose has occurred accidently, the patient should be provided with immediate medical attention. One can also contact to their local poison control center. Some of the overdose symptoms include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, weakness and abdominal etc.
Storage Instructions
Colcrys must be stored at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F or 20-25 degrees C. It should be kept away from light and moisture. The medication should be kept away from children and pets. One should not flush down the medication or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Unused and expired drug should be safely discarded.
