Colchicine

Uses

Colchicine is used primarily to treat the gout, but its effectiveness has been demonstrated in treating certain dermatological conditions, as well.

Colchicine, made from Autumn Crocus, is used primarily to treat gout, but because of its immunological and anti-inflammatory properties, it's also used to treat certain skin diseases, including Amyloidosis, Behcet disease, Psoriasis, Sweet Disease, Recurrent aphthous ulcers, linear IgA dermatosis, acquired epidermolysis bullosa, vasculitis, morphoea and dermatomyositis.

Dosing

Dosage varies from .5 mg to 3 mg a day, depending on what dermatological condition Colchicine is being used to treat.

Side Effects

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting are common side effects, and are more common and severe the higher the dose. Higher doses may result in agranulocytosis, Peripheral neuritis, bleeding into the skin, weak muscles, loss of hair, and loss of sperm reproduction. The toxicity level is quite high (and has been compared to arsenic). In very high doses, it can result in include burning in the mouth and throat, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and kidney and/or multiple organ failure.

Notes of Precaution

Overdosing on Colchicine can be fatal. If gastrointestinal problems occur, discontinue immediately.

Colchicine should be kept at room temperature and away from children.

Notify your doctor if your allergic to any medications, including Colchicine.

* Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to be pregnant.