COLCRYS (COLCHICINE) INDICATIONS

Colcrys is an oral prescription indicated for the treatment of acute gout flares. In addition, this medicine is given to adults and children (four years and above) for the treatment of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).

Colcrys tablet belongs to a class of medications known as alkaloids. Its generic name is colchicine.

Most patients with acute gout flares experience painful and devastating inflammatory arthritis that usually involves the big toe, ankle, and knee joints. Meanwhile, individuals suffering from FMF have recurrent episodes of fever that are accompanied by pain in the abdomen, chest, or joints.

When Colcrys oral alkaloid medication is taken correctly and absorbed into the bloodstream, it is believed to interfere with the intracellular formation of the inflammasome complex, which is responsible for the activation of interleukin-1β. Interleukin-1β is involved in activating monocyte and proinflammatory signaling pathways in peripheral tissues and the brain.

In addition, colchicine also interferes with cytoskeletal processes by preventing β-tubulin polymerization into microtubules. In turn, this blocks neutrophil migration, degranulation, and activation, which are thought to mediate various gout symptoms.

COLCRYS (COLCHICINE) USES AND DOSAGE

Colcrys (colchicine) is approved to use in patients who have the following conditions:

• Prevention and treatment of acute gout flares
• Treatment of FMF in adults and children (four years and above)

Patients require varying amounts of Colcrys depending on their needs. Usually, the frequency and dose are based on the severity of the client’s health condition, age, tolerance to the treatment, other medications they are on, and liver or kidney function.

When using colchicine, make sure to read all medication information and follow all the directions carefully. If you are uncertain about how to use this oral prescription, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

The following are the Colcrys recommended dosages:

For gout flares

The typical dosage is 1.2 mg (two tablets) at the first sign of the gout flare. After one hour, it is followed by 0.6 mg (one tablet). The recommended maximum intake over one hour is 1.8 mg (three tablets).

For pediatric patients with FMF

The usual dose depends on their age:

• Children 4 – 6 years old: 0.3 mg to 1.8 mg daily
• Children 6 – 12 years old: 0.9 mg to 1.8 mg daily
• Adolescents 12 years old and above: 1.2 mg to 2.4 mg daily

For adult patients with FMF

The typical dosage is 1.2 mg to 2.4 mg daily or as prescribed by the doctor.

The following are the directions for administering colchicine:

• Administer Colcrys orally as prescribed by the doctor.
• Take Colcrys without regard to food.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose in treating FMF or acute gout flares.

SIDE EFFECTS OF COLCRYS (COLCHICINE)

Colchicine may have unwanted side effects similar to other medications that may resolve over time when your body has adjusted to the medicine.

Common side effects of Colcrys include:

For gout flares:

• Diarrhea
• Throat pain

For FMF:

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS

• Muscle weakness or pain
• Numbness or tingling (e.g., fingers or toes)
• Increased infection risk due to bone marrow suppression
• Weakness or Tiredness Hair loss
• Severe diarrhea or vomiting

ALLERGIC REACTIONS

• Skin rash
• Hives
• Skin blisters or peeling
• Swelling (face/tongue/throat)
• Trouble breathing or swallowing

Note that this list does not include all the drug information and health implications related to colchicine. Call and ask your healthcare provider for additional information if you develop other side effects not listed above while taking this medication.

COLCRYS (COLCHICINE) CAUTIONS

When taking this oral prescription, be fully informed about the risks of this medication, as it can cause life-threatening side effects or even death if the blood levels of Colcrys are extremely high.

Before taking Colcrys (colchicine), make sure to fully disclose your health history to your doctor, especially if you have the following medical conditions:

• Liver or kidney problems
• Other medical problems
• Pregnant or planning to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding

Do not take Colcrys if you are allergic to colchicine and its other components. In addition, do not use this oral pill if you have liver or kidney problems, as this can cause exacerbate your medical condition.

Be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications or supplements. Avoid taking the following medicines as these can interact with Colcrys, causing negative health implications or death:

• Atazanavir sulfate
• Cyclosporine
• Fosamprenavir
• Indinavir
• Ketoconazole
• Nefazodone
• Ritonavir
• Telithromycin
• Clarithromycin
• Darunavir
• Itraconazole
• Nelfinavir mesylate
• Saquinavir mesylate
• Tipranavir

It is best to avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking Colcrys, as this can increase the possibility of having serious side effects.

Keep colchicine tablets out of reach of the children and store these pills appropriately.

COLCRYS (COLCHICINE) FORM AND STRENGTH

Colcrys is available in tablet formulation with the following strengths:

• Colcrys
  • 0.5 mg tablet*
  • 0.6 mg tablet

*0.5mg is available in countries outside of the United States

FAQ

How quickly does Colcrys (colchicine) work?

The effects of Colcrys depend on how your body responds to the regimen.. The therapeutic effects of this oral prescription often start to take effect between 30 minutes to two hours after taking the medicine. However, it may take a day or two before the pain begins to subside.

What are the side effects of Colcrys (colchicine) medication?

Common side effects of colchicine may include:

For gout flares:

• Diarrhea
• Throat pain

For FMF:

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

How long should I take Colcrys (colchicine) for gout flares?

Your healthcare provider will decide how long you need to take Colcrys. However, do not take colchicine for at least three days after initially using this oral pill in treating gout flares. Make sure to follow the recommendations of your doctor to prevent life-threatening effects.