The Cause of Diarrhea when Taking Colchicine
Diarrhea is a common side effect of taking colchicine, a medicine used to reduce swelling and pain caused by gout. In this article, we will be exploring why diarrhea occurs when colchicine is taken, and how to best manage this side effect.
What is Colchicine?
Colchicine is a medication used to treat gout and other forms of arthritis. It works by blocking the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body responsible for causing pain and swelling. When taken in low doses, colchicine is generally effective in relieving symptoms associated with gout.
What Causes Diarrhea?
Colchicine is an effective medication, however it has been linked to a number of side effects, diarrhea being one of the most common. The exact mechanism by which colchicine causes diarrhea is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to its effect on the gastrointestinal tract. As colchicine reduces the production of inflammatory chemicals, it also affects the intestines, causing increased motility and relaxation of the muscles. This can result in loose, watery stools and abdominal discomfort.
Managing Diarrhea when Taking Colchicine
There are a few steps you can take to manage diarrhea when taking colchicine:
- Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated. It’s also helpful to avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as both can further irritate the digestive tract.
- Eat Small Meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can be easier to digest and may help to prevent diarrhea. Aim for smaller meals that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
- Stay Away from Trigger Foods: Certain foods, such as fatty and greasy items, can irritate the digestive tract and can make diarrhea worse. Avoiding these triggers can help to ease symptoms associated with colchicine-induced diarrhea.
- Consider Medication: Dehydration and diarrhea can be serious complications of colchicine, so it may be necessary to take over-the-counter medications to help manage your symptoms. Always talk to your doctor before taking any new medications.
In summary, diarrhea is a common side effect of taking colchicine. It is thought to be caused by colchicine’s effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to manage diarrhea, such as staying hydrated, eating small meals, and avoiding trigger foods. Additionally, considering over-the-counter medications may also be beneficial in reducing symptoms associated with diarrhea.
What are the side effects of taking colchicine?
Common side effects of colchicine include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, heartburn, loss of appetite, fatigue, rash, headache, and muscle pain. Rare but serious side effects can include bone marrow suppression, liver failure, and kidney failure. Additionally, prolonged use of colchicine can lead to a condition called colchicine toxicity, which can cause severe vomiting, weakness, confusion, constipation, and low blood pressure.