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Colchicine toxicity — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsColchicine toxicityGPhC CRA

A patient prescribed colchicine for gout returns after two days with severe diarrhoea and vomiting. They have taken the prescribed dose and have CKD stage 3. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Stop colchicine and arrange urgent clinical advice

Severe gastrointestinal symptoms can indicate colchicine toxicity, and renal impairment increases risk. Colchicine should be stopped and urgent clinical advice sought. Loperamide may mask toxicity and does not address the cause. Clarithromycin can markedly increase colchicine toxicity risk.

Reference: BNF