Patient/caregiver was instructed upon indications for Colcrys use as follows:
- Uric acid produced in the body is usually completely excreted in the urine. Uric acid deposition in the body tissues can happen either due to an excess of uric acid production or reduced excretion of uric acid by the kidneys, thus precipitating a favorable environment for development of gout and uric acid renal stones.
- Conditions causing excessive uric acid production:
- Individuals with excessive consumption of food items rich in purines, such as seafood, organ meat, bacon, beef, soft drinks, and beer, can be at risk for increased production of uric acid in the body with consequent crystallization and deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints and tissues.
- Patients receiving cancer chemotherapy and individuals with psoriasis can be at risk for increased production of uric acid, secondary to excessive cell destruction, consequent increased protein recycling and purine production, and increased cell turnover in the body.
- Conditions causing reduced excretion of uric acid from the body:
- Individuals with compromised renal function can be at risk for uric acid deposition in the body, as the kidneys are not functioning optimally to eliminate all the uric acid produced.
- Individuals with excessive use of diuretic medications can be at risk for uric acid deposition in the body, as they form very dilute urine with excessive water content.
- Colcrys inhibits the migration of inflammatory cells to the inflamed joint tissues and prevents the release of inflammatory mediators from the granules in these cells. This inhibition of migration of inflammatory cells and inhibition of release of inflammatory mediators into the various joint tissues, contribute to relief from symptoms of acute inflammation, pain and swelling, and prevent exacerbation of gouty arthritis.
