What is the gout drug that could help heart patients?

Colchicine, a drug used to treat gout, has been found to potentially help prevent heart attacks and strokes in patients with cardiovascular problems.

How effective was the colchicine drug in the study?

The study found that for every 1,000 people treated with colchicine, there were 9 fewer heart attacks and 8 fewer strokes compared to those not taking the drug.

What is the connection between gout and heart disease?

Gout, a form of arthritis, is heavily linked to heart disease, which is a major cause of heart attacks. The study suggests treating both conditions with the same drug, colchicine, could be beneficial.

Home / Health / Gout Drug Hailed as Potential Lifesaver for Heart Patients

Gout Drug Hailed as Potential Lifesaver for Heart Patients

13 Nov

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Summary

Colchicine, a gout drug, found to reduce heart attack and stroke risk
Study involved over 10,000 patients with history of cardiovascular problems
Gout and heart disease often occur together, suggesting potential treatment

Gout Drug Hailed as Potential Lifesaver for Heart Patients

Promising new research suggests a cheap gout drug may provide a lifeline for thousands of heart patients. According to the study conducted by German and Swiss scientists, the drug colchicine significantly reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes in over 10,000 patients with a history of cardiovascular problems.

Gout, a form of arthritis, is heavily linked to heart disease - a major cause of heart attacks. The study bolsters evidence connecting the two conditions and offers a potential way to treat both with the same medication. Colchicine, already the first-line treatment for gout on the NHS, works by targeting and inhibiting a chemical that causes inflammation.

While further research is needed, the researchers noted that colchicine is inexpensive, widely available, and has a well-established safety profile. They believe a case can be made for utilizing this repurposed drug to prevent heart attacks and strokes, which could make a real difference for patients living with ongoing cardiovascular risk.