Colchicine prevents gout attacks by:
- A Inhibiting xanthine oxidase, reducing uric acid synthesis
- B Blocking leukotriene synthesis via 5-lipoxygenase inhibition
- C Binding to tubulin and inhibiting neutrophil microtubule polymerisation, impairing migration and phagocytosis ✓
- D Acting as a COX-1 selective inhibitor, reducing prostaglandin-mediated pain
Correct answer: C. Binding to tubulin and inhibiting neutrophil microtubule polymerisation, impairing migration and phagocytosis
Explanation
Colchicine binds to tubulin dimers and prevents microtubule polymerisation; this impairs neutrophil motility, polarisation, and phagocytosis of urate crystals, thereby halting the inflammatory cascade. It also disrupts NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1beta processing. Colchicine has no effect on xanthine oxidase (allopurinol), uricosuria (probenecid), or COX enzymes.
Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.