The Role of Colchicine in Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

There is increasing experimental and clinical evidence that inflammation appears to play an important role in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Treatment of coronary artery disease currently involves management of cardiovascular risk factors, lipid-lowering strategies and antiplatelet medications. Inflammation seems to be central to the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic plaque development, instability, and rupture seen in coronary artery disease. Colchicine, a well-known and relatively inexpensive drug, has unique anti-inflammatory properties, which is generating considerable interest in its potential role in reducing cardiovascular morbidity and potentially mortality. This review discusses the mechanism of action of colchicine in preventing and treating atherosclerosis as well as the literature from recent clinical studies supporting its use in coronary artery disease.