Familial Mediterranean Fever

Colchicine is a chemical compound that can be used as a medication, and is frequently prescribed for gout.

Some years ago, colchicine was discovered to also be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of attacks in FMF.

Treatment for FMF at this point consists of taking colchicine daily.

Studies have shown that about 75 percnt of FMF patients achieve complete remission of their symptoms, and about 95 percnt show marked improvement when taking colchicine.

Lower effectiveness has been reported, but there is some question about the number of FMF patients who choose not to take their colchicine between attacks when they are feeling well, and thus lose some of the ability to prevent attacks.

Compliance with taking colchicine every day may be hampered by its side effects, which include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal bloating, and gas.

There is a theoretical risk that colchicine use could damage chromosomes in sperms and eggs, or in an embryo during pregnancy, or that it might reduce fertility.

However, studies looking at reproduction in men and women who have used colchicine have so far not shown any increased risks.

Colchicine is also effective in preventing, delaying, or reversing renal disease associated with amyloidosis.