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Colchicine

Prescription
Anti-Gout / Antifibrotic Agent
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Binds tubulin disrupting microtubule assembly, inhibiting neutrophil migration and inflammatory mediator release. Also inhibits collagen synthesis by fibroblasts (antifibrotic).

At a glance

Class
Anti-Gout / Antifibrotic Agent
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature 20–25°C, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for hepatic fibrosis and amyloidosis prevention (Shar-Pei fever)
Dose
0.025–0.03 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Used for prevention of renal amyloidosis in predisposed breeds
Dose
0.01–0.03 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature 20–25°C, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

GI toleranceCBC every 3–6 monthsHepatic and renal function

Interactions

Major — 2

Ketoconazole (Systemic)
major
Colchicine is a CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein substrate. Ketoconazole inhibits both, causing colchicine accumulation and severe toxicity (myelosuppression, multi-organ failure).
Management: Avoid combination. If concurrent use unavoidable, reduce colchicine dose by 50-75% and monitor CBC closely.
Clarithromycin
major
Clarithromycin potently inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, causing dangerous colchicine accumulation. Fatal interactions documented in humans.
Management: Avoid. Use alternative antibiotic. If essential, reduce colchicine dose significantly and monitor CBC.

Brands

Other markets

Colcrys
Mitigare

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Colchicine?
Colchicine is a anti-gout / antifibrotic agent used in pets. Binds tubulin disrupting microtubule assembly, inhibiting neutrophil migration and inflammatory mediator release. Also inhibits collagen synthesis by fibroblasts (antifibrotic).
›What is Colchicine used for in pets?
Colchicine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for hepatic fibrosis and amyloidosis prevention (Shar-Pei fever); Used for prevention of renal amyloidosis in predisposed breeds.
›What is the Colchicine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Colchicine is typically dosed as follows — Used for hepatic fibrosis and amyloidosis prevention (Shar-Pei fever): 0.025–0.03 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Colchicine dose for cats?
For cats, Colchicine is typically dosed as follows — Used for prevention of renal amyloidosis in predisposed breeds: 0.01–0.03 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Colchicine need a prescription?
Yes. Colchicine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →