Related Experiment Videos
Review article: immunosuppressive therapy for inflammatory bowel disease
1Virginia Mason Clinic, Seattle, Washington 98101.
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|April 1, 1993
Summary
For refractory inflammatory bowel disease, immunosuppressive drugs like 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine are effective alternatives to long-term steroids. Methotrexate and cyclosporin show promise for difficult cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Refractory inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presents treatment challenges.
- Long-term, high-dose corticosteroid use is associated with significant side effects.
- Nutritional therapies and surgery are established treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of immunosuppressive agents in managing refractory IBD.
- To compare the efficacy and side effect profiles of different immunosuppressants.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical trials and studies on immunosuppressive therapies for IBD.
- Analysis of efficacy data and adverse event profiles.
Main Results:
- Immunosuppressive agents demonstrate efficacy in refractory IBD.
- 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) and azathioprine (AZA) are current mainstays due to extensive clinical data.
- Methotrexate and cyclosporine are emerging as viable options for treatment-resistant cases.
Conclusions:
- Immunosuppressive therapy is a valuable strategy for refractory IBD.
- The side effect profile of immunosuppressants is generally more favorable than long-term corticosteroids.
- Methotrexate and cyclosporine warrant further investigation for refractory IBD management.