Cochrane Database Syst Rev

Colchicine cuts risk of MI and stroke in secondary prevention

November 18, 2025

A 2025 Cochrane review of 12 randomized trials (22,983 patients) reports that low-dose colchicine (0.5 mg daily) for at least six months significantly reduces risk of MI (risk ratio [RR], 0.74) and stroke (RR, 0.67) in adults with established cardiovascular disease, without increasing serious adverse events. GI side effects were more common but typically mild and transient. No significant reduction was seen in all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Authors conclude that colchicine offers meaningful protection against recurrent events, though further research is needed to clarify its role in specific patient subgroups and long-term use.

Clinical takeaway: Colchicine may offer an anti-inflammatory option for reducing recurrent cardiovascular events, but benefits and risks should be weighed against current guideline-based therapies.

Source:

Ebrahimi F, et al. (2025, November 13). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Colchicine for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41224205/