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Colchicine
Available:
0.5 and 0.6 mg tablets
Cost: 60
tablets = $12.60
Dose:
Daily to twice daily dosing for maintenance therapy, but often
given more frequently for acute disease flares
Indications:
Most commonly used to treat inflammation associated with
gout or CPPD (see related sections) but also useful in
occasional patients with less common illnesses such as
palindromic rheumatism and sarcoidosis
Side effects:
Diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common side effects,
which can be minimized by gradually introducing the
medication. Rarely, suppression of the bone marrow causing
low white or red blood cell counts may occur, as well as hair
loss, muscle weakness, and nerve irritation. These
complications are more common in those with impaired kidney
function.
Monitoring:
Baseline blood count, repeated every 6-12 months
Important
points to know: This medication should be taken with food
and as directed to minimize side effects. Use during
pregnancy is generally avoided.
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