Colchicine concentration in whole blood
This test measures the amount of colchicine, a medication used to treat certain types of gout and familial Mediterranean fever, in your blood. It helps monitor your drug levels to ensure they remain safe and effective.
["This test helps doctors check if your colchicine dose is appropriate for your condition and side effects."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60068-4
- Short code
- Colchicine Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Colchicine Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking colchicine to treat conditions like gout, familial Mediterranean fever, or periodic fever syndromes. It’s also used to assess whether your medication levels are within a safe range or if adjustments are needed. Rarely, it may be checked in cases of suspected overdose or toxicity.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. If you’re on colchicine, your provider may ask to check levels at specific times (e.g., before or after doses). Avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for a few hours before the test if instructed.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range that applies to healthy individuals. If your levels are too high, it may indicate overdose or poor metabolism. If too low, it could mean your medication isn’t working as intended. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms, other medications, and medical history.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
While rare, blood tests can cause mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Colchicine itself can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain if levels are too high. Always follow your provider’s instructions for managing medication.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated colchicine levels may signal toxicity, which can lead to serious complications like kidney damage, muscle weakness, or even heart rhythm disturbances. Low levels may mean insufficient therapeutic effect, prompting dose adjustments. This test is critical for patients on long-term colchicine therapy to balance efficacy and safety.
Short name
Colchicine Blood Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What happens if my colchicine levels are too high?
Alcohol may not affect this specific test, but it can interact with colchicine and increase the risk of side effects. Always follow your provider’s guidelines for medication and lifestyle adjustments.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy