Pet Factsheets

Client Factsheets > Dogs > Medication: Colchicine

< Back to search

CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julien Bazelle,

Medication: Colchicine

Medication: Colchicine

Your dog has been prescribed colchicine for the treatment of amyloidosis or a fibrotic condition.

Key points:
• This medication is not licensed for use in dogs. Your veterinarian will explain off-licence use of medications.
• Usually given once or twice daily by mouth.

This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.

Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage

Name

  • Colchicine (col-chih-seen).

Class of medication

  • Anti-inflammatory.

Storage

  • Store tablets at room temperature and protect from light.

Why has my dog been prescribed colchicine?

Your veterinarian has prescribed colchicine for the treatment of amyloidosis or fibrosis.

How is the medication given?

Colchicine tablets are given orally with or without food.

Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?

Possible side-effects include: vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, kidney damage, bone marrow toxicity and muscle/nerve changes. Any side-effects should be reported to your veterinarian. Your pet may be able to continue with the medication if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible, so that they can decide whether continuing with this medication is appropriate.

This medication must not be given to pets already being treated with ciclosporin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Colchicine can increase the risk of bone marrow suppression when giving in combination with immunosuppressive medications or chemotherapy drugs.

How long will my dog need to receive this medication?

Colchicine should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.

How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?

Dispose of any unused colchicine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not give colchicine to other pets.

What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?

If you miss a dose, give the next dose as soon as possible.

My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?

If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.

What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?

Colchicine should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.

If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.

Will my dog need to be monitored while on colchicine?

Your veterinarian will need to examine your pet periodically to be able to prescribe this medication safely and within prescribing regulations. Blood tests may be required.

Further information

If you have any concerns, further information on colchicine can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinarian.

Europe & UK

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.

US

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.

Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.

Scroll to top