Olsalazine for ulcerative colitis
Article Abstract:
The drug olsalazine sodium was recently approved for oral use in preventing the recurrence of ulcerative colitis, inflammation of the colon associated with the formation of ulcers in the mucosal tissue lining the colon. This agent may be used in patients who cannot tolerate conventional treatment with the drug sulfasalazine, which has been shown to cause several adverse effects, including rash, indigestion, headache, anemia and a decrease in white blood cells and platelets (which are involved in clotting). Corticosteroids are usually given to achieve remission in patients with severe ulcerative colitis, whereas sulfasalazine and corticosteroids or mesalamine enemas are given to patients with less severe disease. Only two percent of the oral dose of olsalazine is absorbed, and its active ingredient, 5-aminosalicylic acid, is released by the action of bacteria normally inhabiting the colon. Studies show that olsalazine improved symptoms such as abdominal pain and rectal bleeding in some patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, but caused severe watery diarrhea in some patients. Olsalazine was shown to be less effective than sulfasalazine in treating ulcerative colitis in children, but improved symptoms in patients who could not tolerate sulfasalazine. Other adverse effects of olsalazine include abdominal pain, acne, rash, itching, anxiety, inflammation of the liver, and joint pain. The recommended dose and cost of olsalazine are described. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1990
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An oral preparation of mesalamine as long-term maintenance therapy for ulcerative colitis: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Article Abstract:
A polymer-coated oral preparation of mesalamine may be more effective than placebo in preventing relapses of ulcerative colitis. Researchers studied the treatment and side effects of coated mesalamine in two different doses on 264 patients in remission from ulcerative colitis. Of 189 patients who complied with the program, 40 of 68 (58.8%) taking the 0.8 gram per day dose and 38 of 58 (65.5%) taking the 1.6 gram per day dose stayed in remission, compared to 25 of 63 patients (39.7%) receiving placebo. Treatment was continued for six months. The relapse rate after the initial six months was higher among patients receiving placebo (54%) than among those receiving either dose of mesalamine (35.3% taking 0.8 grams and 31% taking 1.6 grams). Kidney function was not adversely affected.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1996
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