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Colchicine

Although primarily used on a short-term basis to treat attacks of gout, colchicine is increasingly being prescribed for longer periods as a gout preventive. This practice may heighten the chance of developing the nutritional deficiency discussed here.

Interaction

Substance: Vitamin B12

Effect: Supplementation Possibly Helpful

Colchicine can impair intestinal absorption of vitamin B 12, so taking a B 12 supplement during extended colchicine therapy may be warranted.1

 

References

1. Webb DI, Chodos RB, Mahar CQ, et al. Mechanism of vitamin B12 malabsorption in patients receiving colchicine. N Engl J Med 279: 845850, 1968.

Last reviewed December 2015 by EBSCO CAM Review Board