Colchicine in dermatology: A review

Australas J Dermatol. 2018 Nov;59(4):278-285. doi: 10.1111/ajd.12795. Epub 2018 Feb 12.

Abstract

Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory agent that has been used for decades for the treatment of various diseases including gout, familial Mediterranean fever and pericarditis and in recent years for dermatological indications including chronic urticaria, cutaneous vasculitis and psoriasis. Despite its efficacy in various cutaneous diseases, the use of colchicine may be limited by concerns over its side-effects and the potential for toxicity. This article reviews the current literature on the pharmacology of colchicine and its clinical applications in dermatology.

Keywords: anti-inflammatory agent; colchicine; dermatology; drug interaction; inflammation; pharmacology; skin disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Colchicine / pharmacology
  • Colchicine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Colchicine