Oral colchicine in chronic plaque psoriasis

Abstract

Colchicine is well known for its antimitotic and anti-inflammatory effects. This study was designed to evaluate the role of oral colchicine in chronic plaque psoriasis. Fifty adults with chronic plaque psoriasis were randomly allocated into 2 groups of 25 patients each. Group A received oral colchicine 2 mg/day in 2 divided doses, while Group B patients were given placebo tablets. Patients were evaluated every week and the final result compiled after 8 weeks. 90% patients in Group A had gastrointestinal intolerance necessitating a reduction in dose of colchicine to 1 mg/day. After 8 weeks the lesions improved significantly in Group - A patients, compared to Group B (t=2.815, p<0.01). Apart from gastrointestinal intolerance and nephrotic syndrome, no other significant side effects were encountered. It may be worthwhile trying this drug in chronic plaque psoriasis recalcitrant to conventional topical treatment.