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Cochrane Review Finds Low-Dose Colchicine Cuts Heart Attacks and Strokes in Heart Disease

The gout medicine’s low cost with a well-known safety profile makes it a plausible option for secondary prevention pending further study.

Overview

  • The analysis pooled 12 randomized trials with 22,983 participants who had prior cardiovascular disease.
  • Participants took 0.5 mg of colchicine once or twice daily for at least six months alongside usual care.
  • For every 1,000 people treated, the review estimates nine fewer heart attacks and eight fewer strokes versus controls.
  • Mild gastrointestinal complaints were more frequent among users, with no increase in serious adverse events reported.
  • Evidence remains uncertain for effects on overall mortality, revascularization, hospital stays, and quality of life, and most trial participants were older men.