colchicine + opium

Colchicine + opium is a fixed-dose combination medication, primarily available in Spain under the brand name Colchimax, that combines the anti-inflammatory properties of colchicine with the anti-diarrheal effects of opium powder. Colchicine acts by binding to tubulin, thereby inhibiting microtubule polymerization and interfering with neutrophil chemotaxis and the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. This systemic anti-inflammatory action is utilized to treat gout and is being investigated for the prevention of cardiovascular events. Opium powder, containing alkaloids such as morphine, is included in the formulation to mitigate colchicine-induced gastrointestinal side effects, specifically diarrhea, by activating mu-opioid receptors to decrease intestinal motility. The Fundacion Para La Investigacion Biomedica Del Hospital Gregorio Maranon has been a key developer in repurposing this combination for high-risk populations, including those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), to evaluate its efficacy in reducing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Brand names

Colchimax

Other names

colchicine/opiumcolchicina y opiocolchicine and opium powder