Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

An Automated Method to Perform The In Vitro Micronucleus Assay using Multispectral Imaging Flow Cytometry
Published on: May 13, 2019
Colchicine overdose: the devil is in the detail
Vikram Jayaprakash1, Gillian Ansell, David Galler
1Intensive Care Unit, Department of Anaesthesia, Middlemore Hospital, Otahuhu, Auckland. vikram.j@mac.com
Abstract:
Colchicine, a highly poisonous alkaloid, is a commonly used treatment for gout, Bechet's disease, and familial Mediterranean fever. Despite the knowledge of its side effects, the near universally fatal consequence of a significant overdose is commonly under-appreciated. In this report, we present a case series of 9 patients over the past 15 years (from within the Auckland region of New Zealand) that have presented with a colchicine overdose. Surprisingly, a significant number were accidental overdoses and all cases, apart from one, resulted in death. We question the current knowledge base about the toxicity of this drug amongst prescribers, patients, and their families and its use in the treatment of acute gout. Given its extremely narrow therapeutic index, should the manner in which medical practitioners prescribe this drug be reassessed?
Related Concept Videos
Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules
Anticholinesterase Agents: Poisoning and Treatment
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is slower than the...
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Intermittent IV Infusions
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions
