Colchicine is a type of medication most often given to patients with gout. The drug is indicated in the prevention acute gout attacks, and to relieve the pain associated with an episode of the disease, according to MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. The drug works by preventing swelling and other symptoms of gout. Though the drug is effective, there are some side effects that patients should know about.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Colchicine may cause diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, as reported by the Merck Manuals. These conditions are usually associated with the oral form of the drug. Patients who receive large doses of colchicine for acute attacks of gout suffer more often from gastrointestinal effects. Up to 80 percent of patients taking the drug may experience diarrhea and other forms of digestive side effects. If these symptoms persist or last for an extended period of time, then medical assistance may be required.
Skin Conditions
Patients taking colchicine may develop skin conditions. Patients may develop a slight rash, red to purple spots on the skin (purpura), or hair loss (alopecia), according to Drugs.com. Persistence of these skin abnormalities may indicate a bleeding abnormality that can be caused by colchicine. Therefore, the patient’s physician should monitor chronic skin conditions.
Blood Abnormalities
Colchicine can be toxic to the production of blood. Patients can develop severe bone marrow suppression, as stated by the Merck Manuals. The bone marrow produces all types of blood cells, and suppression of the bone marrow can lead to a lack of red blood cells (anemia), decreased levels of white blood cells, and a deficiency of platelets, which are cells that prevent bleeding. Anemia can manifest as pale skin, lips, fingers, or toes. Bleeding problems can be noted when a patient bruises easily, or develops purpura. Any of these symptoms may indicate an emergency situation.
These symptoms are more evident in patients who are receiving long-term IV colchicine therapy. Patients with kidney or liver damage will experience these symptoms if given colchicine.
Neurological Side Effects
Colchicine can cause dangerous neurological side effects. Patients may suffer from muscle pain or weakness, numbness in the fingers or toes, and fatigue, according to MedlinePlus. These side effects can be life-threatening. Physicians should inform patients to seek medical help if these side effects manifest. Colchicine should be stopped if these symptoms develop, and another medication should be given to prevent or treat gout.
About this Author
Joseph Pritchard graduated from Our Lady of Fatima Medical School with a medical degree. He has spent almost a decade studying humanity. Dr. Pritchard writes for the Examiner.com as the SF biology examiner and thoroughly enjoys sharing the knowledge he has accumulated.
