Safety of topical 5-aminosalicylic acid in pregnancy

To assess the safety and efficacy of topical 5-aminosalicylic acid preparations for therapy of distal colitis during pregnancy.

Nineteen pregnancies in sixteen consecutive patients with proven distal colitis were identified prospectively at a tertiary care center. All patients were given trials of weaning off medication and all failed. All subjects were on maintenance topical 5-aminosalicylic acid therapy at the time of conception. They were followed throughout their pregnancy and thereafter. Their children were also closely examined and followed by a pediatrician.

The mean age at delivery was 25.8 yr, and the mean duration of illness was 4.6 yr. After taking topical therapy, there were no relapses during the pregnancy. There were 19 successful full-term pregnancies with no fetal abnormalities. The mothers and children were followed for more than 6 months.

In this series, topical 5-aminosalicylic acid appears safe, effective, and well tolerated in the management of pregnant patients with distal colitis.