Can I drink alcohol after taking colchicine?
Disease description:
I had foot pain a few years ago and went to the hospital for examination, where I was diagnosed with gout. The hospital prescribed medications for me, one of which was colchicine. Today, I just took the medication when a friend invited me to drink alcohol. May I ask, is it okay to drink alcohol after taking colchicine?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
After taking colchicine, alcohol consumption should be avoided to ensure the drug's effectiveness and safety. The reasons are as follows:
1. Worsening of condition: Colchicine is primarily used for treating gouty arthritis, while alcohol can elevate uric acid levels in the body, exacerbating gout symptoms and reducing the therapeutic effect of colchicine.
2. Gastrointestinal reactions: Both colchicine and alcohol can cause gastrointestinal reactions such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Using them together may intensify these reactions.
3. Liver and kidney damage: Both substances have certain toxic effects on the liver and kidneys, and their combined use may lead to more severe liver and kidney damage, resulting in serious side effects.
