| Theme |
Current Therapy of IBD |
| Title |
Topical Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis |
| Author |
Makoto Naganuma |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University |
| Author |
Mamoru Watanabe |
Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University |
| [ Summary ] |
5-Aminosalicylates (5-ASA) are considered a first-line therapy for inducing and maintaining remission of mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis (UC). When inflammation due to UC is limited to the distal colon, 5-ASA can also be administered rectally in the form of suppositories, enemas or foams. Results from recent meta-analysis have indicated that rectal 5-ASA is superior to rectal corticosteroids for inducing symptomatic improvement and remission. Even in cases of extensive UC, a combination of oral and topical 5-ASA is more effective than oral 5-ASA alone. Physicians and co-medical staff members should instruct patients on how to use enemas and on the usefulness of enemas before through patient self administration. |