Aminosalicylates in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

Numerous clinical trials have supported the efficacy of aminosalicylates in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, particularly ulcerative colitis. There are few studies in paediatric patients addressing either pharmacokinetic properties or efficacy. There are a number of controversies in their clinical use, including: the optimum dose and dosing interval for induction and maintenance of remission, the most appropriate preparation given the clinical setting, the overall efficacy in Crohn’s disease, the efficacy in preventing post-operative recurrence of Crohn’s disease etc. A new oral mesalamine formulation, MMX (multi-matrix tablet), delivers mesalamine particularly to the distal colon even when given once daily. The tablet form still precludes use in small children.

Keywords

• aminosalicylates
• children
• ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease