Colchicine and Inflammation in Aortic Stenosis

Inclusion Criterion: • Asymptomatic moderate aortic valve stenosis on recent (\<6 months) echocardiography (based on peak velocity, mean gradient, aortic valve area). The severity of AS will be quantified according to current EACVI / ASE guidelines. Exclusion Criteria: * Heavily calcified aortic valve on echocardiography (defined as grade 4 calcification: extensive thickening/calcification of all cusps as described in the articles by Rosenhek et al.); * a planned aortic valve replacement in the next six months; * severe mitral valve stenosis (MVA \< 1cm2); * severe mitral or aortic valve regurgitation; * rheumatic aortic valve disease; * bicuspid aortic valve; * valvular disease due to history of chest radiation; * left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF \< 35%); * renal impairment (eGFR \<30 ml/min/1.73m2); * patients aged \<50 and \>80 years; * pre-existing chronic gastro-intestinal complaints which may obscure signs of colchicine intolerance; * child-bearing potential without the use of contraception; * use of CYP3A4 (e.g. verapamil) or P-glycoprotein inhibitors; * use of bisphosphonate or denosumab; * chronic use of immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs including colchicine and NSAID's (excl. acetylsalicylic acid); * active or chronic liver disease; * the presence of a pacemaker or internal cardiac defibrillator; * life expectancy \<2 years.