Colchicine is a medication primarily used to treat and prevent gout attacks by reducing inflammation. Gout typically presents with sudden symptoms affecting one or a few joints, most commonly the big toe, knee, or ankle. It is caused by excess uric acid in the blood, which can lead to the formation of hard crystals in the joints. Colchicine helps by reducing swelling and preventing the buildup of these uric acid crystals, easing the pain in the affected joints.