Related Experiment Videos
Treatment of antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis with cholestyramine resin
Abstract:
Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is an infrequent but serious complication of oral and intravenous antibiotic therapy. Twelve patients with antibiotic-associated PMC, documented by sigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsy, were treated with cholestyramine resin. The mean time from the institution of therapy to cessation of diarrhea was 2.1 days. The response interval bore no relationship to the time symptoms were present prior to therapy. Complete resolution of sigmoidoscopic and histologic evidence of PMC usually accompanied or followed cessation of diarrhea. Obstipation was reported in 5 of 12 patients as a side effect of cholestyramine treatment. Therapy should be continued for up to five days after cessation of diarrhea to prevent recurrence of active PMC. Cholestyramine resin is shown to be an effective treatment for antibiotic-associated PMC.
Insights
Cholestyramine resin effectively treats antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis (PMC). This treatment rapidly resolves diarrhea and associated symptoms, though continued therapy is recommended to prevent recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is a serious complication of antibiotic therapy.
- Antibiotic-associated PMC requires effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of cholestyramine resin in treating antibiotic-associated PMC.
- To determine the treatment duration necessary to prevent recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Twelve patients with documented antibiotic-associated PMC were treated with cholestyramine resin.
- Diagnosis was confirmed via sigmoidoscopy and rectal biopsy.
Main Results:
- The mean time to cessation of diarrhea was 2.1 days.
- Complete resolution of PMC signs often accompanied or followed diarrhea cessation.
- Obstipation occurred in 5 of 12 patients as a side effect.
Conclusions:
- Cholestyramine resin is an effective treatment for antibiotic-associated PMC.
- Continuing therapy for five days post-diarrhea cessation may prevent recurrence.