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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Standardized Insect Venom Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb, the botanical source of colchicine, is a potent alkaloid-containing agent used as a Nitrogen Binding Agent and Plant Allergenic Extract for inflammatory conditions and allergy testing.
Name
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb
Raw Name
COLCHICUM AUTUMNALE BULB
Category
Standardized Insect Venom Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
112
Variant Count
140
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Colchicum Autumnale Bulb
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb, the botanical source of colchicine, is a potent alkaloid-containing agent used as a Nitrogen Binding Agent and Plant Allergenic Extract for inflammatory conditions and allergy testing.
Detailed information about Colchicum Autumnale Bulb
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Colchicum Autumnale Bulb.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb, commonly known as Meadow Saffron or Autumn Crocus, is a perennial flowering plant that serves as the primary botanical source for the potent alkaloid colchicine. In clinical pharmacology, it is classified under several Established Pharmacologic Classes (EPC), most notably as a Nitrogen Binding Agent [EPC] and a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]. While the raw bulb itself is highly toxic, standardized extracts and purified derivatives have been utilized for centuries in the management of inflammatory disorders.
Historically, Colchicum was used by ancient Greek physicians and was formally introduced into Western medicine in the 18th century for the treatment of 'dropsy' and later, gouty arthritis. In the modern regulatory landscape, the FDA has transitioned from allowing unapproved colchicine preparations to requiring rigorous New Drug Applications (NDAs), a process that culminated in the 2009 'Unapproved Drugs Initiative.' Today, Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives are primarily recognized for their role in treating gout flares and Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), as well as serving as diagnostic components in allergenic testing panels. Your healthcare provider may prescribe products derived from this bulb to manage acute inflammatory responses or as part of a complex immunotherapy regimen.
The therapeutic efficacy of Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is primarily attributed to its high concentration of colchicine. At the molecular level, it functions as a microtubule disruptor. Microtubules are essential structural components of the cell's cytoskeleton, involved in cell division (mitosis), intracellular transport, and the movement of inflammatory cells.
By binding to tubulin (a protein subunit of microtubules), Colchicum derivatives inhibit the polymerization (assembly) of these structures. This action specifically targets neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). In conditions like gout, neutrophils migrate to the site of uric acid crystal deposition, causing intense inflammation and pain. Colchicum prevents this migration (chemotaxis), reduces the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, and inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Additionally, the provided pharmacological data suggests it may possess Ammonium Ion Binding Activity [MoA] and Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors [MoA] properties, further contributing to its systemic anti-inflammatory profile.
Understanding the pharmacokinetics of Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives is critical due to their narrow therapeutic index (the small window between a safe dose and a toxic dose).
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives are FDA-approved for several specific indications:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is right for your specific condition. Because of its potential for severe toxicity, it must be used exactly as prescribed.
Dosing for Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives must be highly individualized based on the patient's renal function, hepatic health, and concurrent medications.
For patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, dosage adjustments may not be necessary for prophylaxis, but close monitoring is required. In severe renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance < 30 mL/min), the dose for gout flares should be reduced, and the treatment course should not be repeated more than once every 2 weeks.
Patients with severe hepatic impairment require significant dose reductions. Because the liver (via CYP3A4) is responsible for metabolizing the active alkaloids, impairment can lead to rapid toxicity.
Patients over the age of 65 often have age-related declines in renal and hepatic function. Healthcare providers typically start at the lower end of the dosing range and monitor for signs of neuromuscular toxicity.
If you miss a dose for prophylaxis or FMF, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this significantly increases the risk of toxicity.
Colchicum overdose is a medical emergency and is often fatal. Signs of overdose may be delayed by several hours and include:
If an overdose is suspected, call 911 or your local poison control center immediately. There is no specific antidote for Colchicum poisoning; treatment is primarily supportive.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking the medication without medical guidance.
The most frequent side effects associated with Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives involve the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These are often used as a clinical marker that the maximum tolerated dose has been reached.
> Warning: Stop taking Colchicum Autumnale Bulb and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious symptoms.
Prolonged use of Colchicum derivatives can lead to chronic issues, particularly in the blood and nervous system. Chronic bone marrow suppression can result in aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis (dangerously low white blood cell count). Additionally, long-term use in patients with renal insufficiency significantly increases the risk of myopathy (muscle disease) and peripheral neuropathy.
While there is no specific FDA 'Black Box Warning' for the raw bulb extract itself, the purified active ingredient (colchicine) carries severe warnings regarding Fatal Drug Interactions. Specifically, the administration of Colchicum derivatives with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like clarithromycin) or P-glycoprotein inhibitors (like cyclosporine) in patients with renal or hepatic impairment has resulted in fatal toxicities. The FDA emphasizes that these interactions can lead to life-threatening colchicine levels even at standard doses.
Report any unusual symptoms or changes in your health to your healthcare provider immediately. Regular blood work is often required to monitor for these side effects.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is a high-risk medication due to its narrow therapeutic index. It is essential that patients understand that the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is very small. This medication should never be shared with others, as a dose that is safe for one person could be fatal for another, especially if they have underlying kidney or liver issues.
No specific FDA black box warnings exist for the botanical extract 'Colchicum Autumnale Bulb' as a standalone entity, but its primary constituent, colchicine, is subject to strict safety labeling regarding Fatal Toxicity when combined with certain medications in the presence of renal or hepatic dysfunction. Always review the specific prescribing information for the brand-name product you are dispensed.
Your healthcare provider will likely require regular laboratory testing while you are taking Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives:
Colchicum derivatives generally do not cause drowsiness or cognitive impairment. However, if you experience severe fatigue or dizziness as a side effect, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
Alcohol should be avoided or strictly limited. Alcohol can increase uric acid levels, potentially triggering the very gout flares the medication is intended to treat. Furthermore, alcohol can irritate the GI tract, worsening the gastrointestinal side effects of Colchicum.
For gout flares, the medication is stopped once the flare subsides or the maximum dose is reached. For FMF or gout prophylaxis, the medication is usually taken long-term. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to a rapid return of inflammatory symptoms.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, including history of kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach ulcers, with your healthcare provider before starting Colchicum Autumnale Bulb.
Certain drug combinations with Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives are strictly contraindicated because they can lead to fatal levels of the drug in the body.
Colchicum derivatives may cause false-positive results in urine tests for hemoglobin or albumin. It may also interfere with certain laboratory assays for urinary steroids. Always inform the laboratory staff if you are taking this medication.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including over-the-counter pain relievers and vitamins.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
In these cases, a healthcare provider must perform a careful risk-benefit analysis:
Patients who are allergic to other members of the Colchicaceae family (such as Gloriosa superba) may exhibit cross-sensitivity to Colchicum Autumnale Bulb extracts. If you have had an allergic reaction to any 'lily' type plants, discuss this with your allergist before undergoing testing with this extract.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your current kidney and liver function, before prescribing Colchicum Autumnale Bulb.
FDA Pregnancy Category C. Data regarding the use of Colchicum Autumnale Bulb in pregnant women are limited. Animal studies have shown evidence of teratogenicity (birth defects) and embryotoxicity at high doses. In humans, the active alkaloid colchicine crosses the placenta. While some studies in women with FMF suggest that the benefits of preventing flares may outweigh the risks to the fetus, it should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Discuss a 'pregnancy plan' with your rheumatologist if you are planning to conceive.
Colchicine, the active component of the bulb, is excreted into human breast milk. While limited data suggest that the amount of drug the infant receives is low, the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants exists. Healthcare providers often recommend monitoring the infant for diarrhea or other signs of GI distress if the mother continues the medication while breastfeeding. Alternatively, breastfeeding may be paused during acute flare treatments.
Colchicum derivatives are well-established for the treatment of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) in children as young as 4 years old. However, its safety and efficacy for the treatment or prophylaxis of gout in children have not been established. Pediatric patients require strict weight-based or age-based dosing and frequent monitoring of growth and blood counts.
Patients over age 65 are at a significantly higher risk for Colchicum-induced toxicity. This is due to the natural decline in renal clearance and the higher likelihood of polypharmacy (taking multiple medications). Elderly patients are particularly susceptible to neuromuscular toxicity and rhabdomyolysis. Healthcare providers generally use the lowest effective dose and perform frequent renal function assessments.
For patients with a Creatinine Clearance (CrCl) between 30 and 80 mL/min, the drug is generally safe but requires monitoring. For those with CrCl < 30 mL/min (severe impairment), the dose for acute flares should be reduced by 50%, and the patient should wait at least 2 weeks before receiving another course. For patients on hemodialysis, the drug is not removed by dialysis, and the risk of accumulation is extremely high.
In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, no initial dose adjustment is usually required, but they must be monitored for toxicity. In severe hepatic impairment, dose reductions are mandatory. If a patient has both hepatic and renal impairment, the use of Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is generally avoided entirely.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and frequent follow-up to ensure safety.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb exerts its effects primarily through the inhibition of tubulin polymerization. It binds to a specific site on the beta-tubulin subunit, forming a tubulin-colchicine complex. This complex prevents the addition of new tubulin dimers to the growing end of microtubules. By disrupting the microtubule network, the drug inhibits several cellular processes:
The anti-inflammatory effect in gout usually begins within 12 to 24 hours of the first dose, with peak pain relief occurring between 48 and 72 hours. The duration of effect is prolonged because the drug remains bound to leukocytes for several days after the plasma levels have declined.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 45% (range 24-88%) |
| Protein Binding | 39% (primarily to albumin) |
| Half-life | 27–31 hours |
| Tmax | 0.5–3.0 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4) |
| Excretion | Renal (40-65%), Biliary/Fecal (35-60%) |
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is categorized as a Nitrogen Binding Agent [EPC] and a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]. It is therapeutically related to other anti-gout agents, though its mechanism is distinct from xanthine oxidase inhibitors (like allopurinol) or uricosurics (like probenecid).
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Colchicum Autumnale Bulb
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is primarily used as the source for colchicine, a medication prescribed for the treatment and prevention of gout flares and Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF). It works by reducing the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals in the joints or systemic inflammatory responses in FMF. In addition to these uses, it is also utilized as an allergenic extract in clinical immunology to test for plant-based allergies. Some healthcare providers may also use it off-label for conditions like pericarditis. It is a potent agent that must be used under strict medical supervision due to its narrow safety margin.
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Diarrhea is particularly frequent and is often a sign that the body has reached its limit for the medication. If you experience severe or persistent diarrhea, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Other common side effects can include fatigue and headache. While these are often manageable, they should always be reported to your healthcare provider to ensure they are not early signs of more serious toxicity.
It is generally advised to avoid or significantly limit alcohol consumption while taking Colchicum Autumnale Bulb derivatives. Alcohol can increase the levels of uric acid in your blood, which can trigger the gout flares the medication is trying to prevent. Furthermore, alcohol is a known gastrointestinal irritant and can worsen the stomach pain and diarrhea commonly caused by this drug. Combining the two can also put additional strain on your liver, which is responsible for metabolizing the medication. Consult your doctor for specific guidance based on your health status.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning there is not enough high-quality evidence in humans to rule out risk, and animal studies have shown potential harm. The active components cross the placenta and can interfere with cell division, which is a concern for fetal development. However, for women with Familial Mediterranean Fever, the risk of an untreated flare may be more dangerous than the medication itself. Because of this complexity, the drug should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Always discuss your pregnancy status and plans with your specialist.
When used for an acute gout flare, most patients begin to feel some relief within 12 to 24 hours after taking the initial dose. However, it may take up to 48 to 72 hours to reach the maximum effect and for the swelling and pain to significantly subside. The medication is most effective when taken at the very first sign of a flare. If you do not feel any improvement after 2 or 3 days, you should contact your healthcare provider. For chronic conditions like FMF, it may take several weeks of consistent use to see a reduction in the frequency of attacks.
If you are taking Colchicum Autumnale Bulb for an acute gout flare, you will typically stop the medication once the flare is resolved or you have reached the maximum dose. However, if you are taking it for prophylaxis (prevention) of gout or for Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), you should not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor. Stopping the medication abruptly can lead to a rapid return of painful symptoms or a severe inflammatory flare. Your doctor will provide a plan if you need to discontinue the medication safely.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It is vital that you do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this can lead to dangerous levels of the drug in your system. Because this medication has a narrow therapeutic window, doubling a dose significantly increases the risk of severe gastrointestinal distress and bone marrow toxicity. If you are unsure, contact your pharmacist for guidance.
Weight gain is not a recognized or common side effect of Colchicum Autumnale Bulb or its active derivatives. In fact, due to the frequent gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and diarrhea, some patients may actually experience temporary weight loss or decreased appetite. If you notice significant or rapid weight changes while taking this medication, it is likely due to another cause or an underlying health condition. You should discuss any unexpected weight changes with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying reason and ensure your treatment plan remains appropriate.
Colchicum Autumnale Bulb has several very serious drug interactions that must be managed carefully. It should not be taken with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like certain antibiotics or antifungals) or P-glycoprotein inhibitors, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, as this can be fatal. It also has interactions with cholesterol-lowering statins, which can increase the risk of muscle damage. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to prevent dangerous interactions. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or choose an alternative therapy.
Yes, the active alkaloid derived from the bulb, colchicine, is available as a generic medication in several forms, including 0.6 mg tablets and capsules. Generic versions are typically more cost-effective than brand-name versions like Colcrys or Mitigare. While the active ingredient is the same, always ensure you are receiving the exact formulation prescribed by your doctor. If you are using it as an allergenic extract, these are often specialized products that may not have a direct 'generic' equivalent in the same way tablets do. Check with your pharmacist regarding the availability of generic options for your specific prescription.