Colchicine is a medicine derived from the Colchicum plant and has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Colchicine is primarily used for treating gout, a type of arthritis that affects millions of people globally.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when there is a build-up of uric acid in the body. This can cause severe pain and swelling in the joints, especially in the feet, ankles, knuckles and knees. Gout is a common condition that affects around 3.9% of the adult population in the United States, which is equivalent to 8.3 million people.
In a study published in 2019, Colchicine was reviewed for the treatment of acute gout. The authors found that Colchicine was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with gout. Additionally, another double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of low-dose of Colchicine on gout flares over a 16-week period. The study found that Colchicine reduced the risk of gout flares by 40% compared to placebo. The study also found that low-dose Colchicine has few manageable side effects.
What Other Medical Conditions Can Colchicine Be Used For?
Colchicine works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can reduce the pain and discomfort associated with gout. It does this by interfering with the movement of white blood cells into the affected joints, which can reduce the inflammatory response.
In addition to treating gout, Colchicine can also treat other medical conditions, such as Familial Mediterranean Fever and Behcet’s Disease.
1. Familial Mediterranean Fever
Familial Mediterranean Fever is a genetic disorder that causes recurrent episodes of fever, abdominal pain, and joint pain. It primarily affects people of Mediterranean descent, and it is estimated to affect around 1 in 200 to 1 in 1000 individuals in this population.
2. Behcet’s Disease
Behcet’s Disease is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in various parts of the body, including the eyes, mouth, skin, and genital area. It primarily affects people in the Middle East, Asia, and Japan, and it is estimated to affect around 20,000 to 50,000 people in the United States.
What Are the Side Effects of Colchicine?
While Colchicine can be an effective treatment for gout and other medical conditions, such as familial Mediterranean fever and Bahcet’s disease, it can also cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, muscle weakness, and changes in blood cell counts. In rare cases, Colchicine can also cause nerve damage or an allergic reaction.
It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with their healthcare provider before starting the medication. Patients should also report any side effects they experience to their healthcare provider.