NCT06874192 · Virginia Commonwealth University
Safety and Efficacy of LOw DOse COlchicine in Patients With STatin INTolerance: the LODOCO STINT Pilot Study
What this study is about
Statins are a class of cholesterol lowering medications that contribute to reducing a person's risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event like heart attack. Along with the ability to lower cholesterol, statins also possess anti-inflammatory properties which contribute to their cardioprotective effects.
View original scientific description
Statins are a class of cholesterol lowering medications that contribute to reducing a person's risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event like heart attack. Along with the ability to lower cholesterol, statins also possess anti-inflammatory properties which contribute to their cardioprotective effects. Some people experience side effects while taking statins and are unable to continue treatment with them,which can then increase a person's risk of having cardiovascular issues due to untreated high cholesterol levels. Prior studies have shown that inflammation in the body may lead to an increased risk of a future cardiovascular events. Low dose colchicine (LODOCO), an anti-inflammatory agent, has been shown to reduce cardiovascular events by inhibiting inflammation, a major cause of cardiovascular disease. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved LODOCO to reduce the risk of a future cardiac events for those who have existing heart disease or possess multiple risk factors for heart disease.
Interventions
DRUG
Low-dose colchicine at 0.5mg daily
LODOCO is low-dose colchicine at 0.5mg daily, ii is an FDA approved anti-inflammatory drug, to prevent cardiovascular events in patients with coronary artery disease. LODOCO works by inhibiting microtubule formation and reducing the activity of neutrophils, which play a key role in inflammation.
OTHER
Placebo
Matching placebo
Primary outcome measures
Safety will be assessed by monitoring the incidence of adverse events
Time frame: Baseline to four weeks.
Safety will be assessed by monitoring the incidence of adverse events from baseline to four weeks. Adverse events and tolerability will be evaluated using investigator-administered questionnaires at scheduled study visits. Participants will be asked to self-report any symptoms between visits, and all adverse events will be documented.
Efficacy will be determined by measuring the change in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein
Time frame: Baseline to four weeks
Efficacy will be determined by measuring the change in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels from baseline to four weeks. The measurement of hs-CRP pre and post treatment will assess the change in hs-CRP with colchicine. This will test the hypothesis that LODOCO through the inhibition of the inflammatory pathways will lead to a decrease in hs-CRP levels.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- History of statin intolerance (As defined by the NLA 2023 guidelines) Patients who have experienced one or more adverse effects associated with statin therapy, which resolves or improves with dose continuation or reduction
- Stable dose of lipid-lowering regimen (statin or non-statin) for at least one month
- Patients able to provide informed consent.
- Aged 18 to 80 will be enrolled in the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Known hypersensitivity to colchicine, current use of colchicine or other anti-inflammatory medications.
- Renal impairment (eGFR \<45 mL/min/1.73 m2)
- Transaminitis (ALT or AST \>3 times upper limit of normal)
- Severe Heart Failure
- Active cancer or currently on chemotherapy
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis) or other diarrheal related GI pathologies
- Active infection
- Autoimmune or inflammatory condition
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Where
- Richmond, Virginia
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations