Colchicine
Colchicine is alkaloid isolated from the autumn crocus and is used in the treatment of gouty arthritis. It relieves symptoms of gout and helps prevent further attacks.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Alkaloid.
It belongs to Microtubule pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Colchicine pharmacological group. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 399.4 · pKa: 1.7 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 20 · Solubility in Alcohol: freely soluble · Non-proprietary name: Colchicine.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Colchicine has an oral bioavailability is 95% (±5%).
Distribution: Colchicine has a volume of distribution is 1-2 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 30-50%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 0.58 hr, renal excretion is 40%.
Advertisement
Indications
Colchicine is primarily indicated in conditions like Acute gouty arthritis, Familial mediterranean fever, Gonadal dysgenesis (turner syndrome), Gout prophylaxis, Insomnia, Recurrent miscarriage (habitual abortion), Secondary amenorrhoea, Severe acute anxiety, Ventricular arrhythmias.
Colchicine is also indicated for secondary conditions like Parkinson's disease or symptomatic parkinsonism.
Contraindications
Colchicine is contraindicated in conditions like Blood dyscrasias, Renal diseases, GI diseases, Cardiac disease.
Dosage
Colchicine's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 300 mg | 300 mg | Every 12h | PO | Maintenance, As Required |
| 750 mg | 750 mg | Every 24h | PO | Loading |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Safety not established | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Safety not established | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Colchicine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Paralytic ileus , Bladder spasm , Non-thrombocytopenic purpuria , Hypothyroidism , Stomatitis , Peripheral neuropathy , Azoospermia , Acute renal failure , Vesicular dermatitis , Myopathy , Prostration .
Colchicine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Renal failure, Dehydration . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Colchicine are Fever, Rashes , Nausea, Cardiovascular collapse, Vomiting, Shock, Diarrhea, Stomatitis, Hypercalcemia, Anorexia , Arthralgia, Malaise.
Colchicine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Alopecia, Anorexia , Diarrhea, Nausea, Rashes , Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Colchicine may interfere in the diagnosis of Increased Alkaline Phosphatase Levels.
Available Brands
Click on a strength to view available brands.
Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.3 — Antigout preparations
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Colchicine in Pakistan: