Overview
- The review pooled 12 randomized trials with nearly 23,000 adults with established cardiovascular disease, using 0.5 mg once or twice daily for at least six months.
- For every 1,000 people treated, about 9 fewer myocardial infarctions and 8 fewer strokes occurred compared with controls.
- The analysis found no convincing effect on all-cause or cardiovascular mortality and no change in coronary revascularization rates.
- Serious adverse events did not increase, though mild gastrointestinal side effects were more common among those taking colchicine.
- Authors highlight evidence gaps on quality of life and hospitalizations and call for longer-term, more inclusive studies.