Colchicine

Gout medicine
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Colchicine is a gout medicine found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Zycolchin 0.5. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats and prevents gout attacks.

How it works

Calms the inflammation of a gout attack and prevents flares; also used for pericarditis and familial Mediterranean fever.

How to take it

For an attack: 1 mg then 0.5 mg an hour later, then no more for 12 hours (or as your doctor advises). Low daily doses for prevention.

Common side effects

  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe diarrhoea or vomiting
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness
  • Bruising (signs of toxicity)

Be careful

Diarrhoea is a sign to stop; dangerous in overdose.

Other medicines and interactions

Clarithromycin, erythromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, ritonavir, verapamil, diltiazem and grapefruit raise levels dangerously.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Used in pregnancy only if clearly needed; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Brands of Colchicine (1)

Zycolchin 0.5

Common questions

What is Colchicine used for?

Treats and prevents gout attacks.

How does Colchicine work?

Calms the inflammation of a gout attack and prevents flares; also used for pericarditis and familial Mediterranean fever.

How should I take Colchicine?

For an attack: 1 mg then 0.5 mg an hour later, then no more for 12 hours (or as your doctor advises). Low daily doses for prevention.

What are the side effects of Colchicine?

Common: Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain. Get help straight away for: Severe diarrhoea or vomiting, muscle weakness, numbness, bruising (signs of toxicity).

Does Colchicine interact with other medicines?

Clarithromycin, erythromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, ritonavir, verapamil, diltiazem and grapefruit raise levels dangerously.

Is Colchicine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Used in pregnancy only if clearly needed; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Colchicine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Colchicine?

Zycolchin 0.5.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.