Theme |
Therapeutic strategy for ulcerative colitis ; from standard to up-to-date |
Title |
Tacrolimus for ulcerative colitis |
Author |
Fumihito Hirai |
Department of Gastroenterology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital |
Author |
Toshiyuki Matsui |
Department of Gastroenterology, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital |
[ Summary ] |
Tacrolimus is currently used in Japan for intractable ulcerative colitis treatment. This treatment is useful for patients with UC who exhibit resistance to or dependence on steroid therapy. The frequency of tacrolimus use for UC treatment has increased recently. It is well─known that the effects of tacrolimus depended on the trough level. There is no evidence of recommended treatment strategies or indications for use of tacrolimus. We outline these problems and demonstrate cases of UC treated with tacrolimus. |