Update on the Role of Colchicine in Cardiovascular Disease

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review focuses on the use of colchicine to target inflammation to prevent cardiovascular events among those at-risk for or with established coronary artery disease.Recent FindingsColchicine is an anti-inflammatory drug that reduces cardiovascular events through its effect on the IL-1 β/IL-6/CRP pathway, which promotes the progression and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Clinical trials have demonstrated that colchicine reduces cardiovascular events by 31% among those with chronic coronary disease, and by 23% among those with recent myocardial infarction. Its ability to dampe n inflammation during an acute injury may broaden its scope of use in patients at risk for cardiovascular events after major non-cardiac surgery.SummaryColchicine is an effective anti-inflammatory therapy in the prevention of acute coronary syndrome. Ongoing studies aim to assess when, and in whom, colchicine is most effective to prevent cardiovascular events in patients at-risk for or with established coronary artery disease.
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research