Guide To Colchicine

Colchicine is a prescription medication. It is extracted from crocus plants, and it helps reduce the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. This medicine is an oral tablet. Patients can take it to reduce pain and other symptoms during a gout attack. The medication may be taken regularly to prevent future episodes. Typically, adults are advised to take 1.2 milligrams when they first notice symptoms of a flare. Doctors recommend 0.6 milligrams one hour after the flare begins. Most individuals are placed on a daily dose of 0.6 milligrams if they are taking it to prevent future flares. Some patients may take two doses per day. Elderly patients and individuals with renal damage may need to take a lower dose. 

Clearly, colchicine is a common gout treatment. Patients often take this gout medicine to achieve immediate gout pain relief. However, there may be alternatives to colchicine tablets. Some individuals may want to try herbal medicine for uric acid or other gout supplements. Of course, patients should understand how this medication works first so that they can evaluate the best treatment for gout with their doctor.

How It Works 

Colchicine is a gout medication. It stops the processes in the body that cause inflammation. This medication also changes the way that an individual's body responds to uric acid. Colchicine binds to proteins called tubulins. This action stops the assembly of microtubules. Microtubules help cells retain their shape. They are involved in the regulation of cell division and the secretion of chemokines and cytokines. Researchers believe that many of this medication's benefits are due to its ability to block tubulins. Recent studies have found that this medication prevents neutrophils from moving in certain ways. This is believed to have a direct impact on the uric acid crystals associated with gout.