Colchicine is an alkaloid used to treat gout and Familial Mediterranean Fever as well as prevent major cardiovascular events. Colchicine is an alkaloid drug derived from a plant belonging to the Lily family, known as Colchicum autumnale, or "autumn crocus." Its use was first approved by the FDA in 1961.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 8 references
The exact mechanism of action of colchicine has not been fully established; however, colchicine likely interferes with the intracellular assembly of the inflammasome complex present in neutrophils and monocytes that mediates activation of interleukin-1β, an inflammatory mediator. Colchicine also attenuates neutrophil adhesion and recruitment, as well as superoxide production. Clinical data demonstrate that colchicine reduces high-sensitivity C- reactive protein (hs-CRP).
Colchicine is an anti-mitotic drug that disrupts cytoskeletal functions by inhibiting β-tubulin polymerization into microtubules. Consequently, it prevents the activation, degranulation, and migration of neutrophils. This pharmacological action is thought to be related to colchicine ameliorating gout symptoms and preventing major cardiovascular events. Colchicine blocks microtubule growth at low concentrations and causes the depolymerization of microtubules at high concentrations.
- Primary indication
- Colchicine is indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of gout flares.Curator reviewed · 14 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C22H25NO6 · 399.443 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2000 · United States, 1982
- Brand names
Resolves to
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Which drugs share a target with Colchicine, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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