Study finds gout drug may reduce risk of heart attack and stroke

By Stephen Beech

A drug used to treat gout could reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke , according to a new study.

Researchers found colchicine – an inexpensive drug used to treat the painful type of arthritis – could cut heart attacks and strokes in people with cardiovascular disease .

The review examined the effects of low doses of the drug and found no increase in serious side effects.

Scientists say cardiovascular disease is often driven by chronic low-grade inflammation, which contributes to recurrent cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Colchicine has anti-inflammatory properties that make it a promising option for people with heart disease.

The review included 12 trials involving nearly 23,000 people with a history of heart disease, heart atta