The Impact of Colchicine on the Amyloidosis of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)

Since Goldfinger’s observation in 1972 that daily administration of colchicine may prevent the attacks of familial Mediterranean fever [1], the drug has become the mainstay of therapy and is recommended to all of our many afflicted. On a dose of 102 mg/day, 95% of patients experience complete remission or marked amelioration of their attacks. The remainder do not respond to even higher doses. Children as a rule respond only to full adult dosage. Side-effects are uncommon and usually mild but have occasionally required and always responded to desensitization, permitting continuation of the drug. Non-compliance is promptly punished by renewal of attacks.