Which 5-ASA? Understanding the choices in ulcerative colitis therapy

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis is an intrusive and unpredictable condition that significantly affects the quality of life of the patients diagnosed with it. 5-aminosalycilic acid (5-ASA) medication is a valid and safe treatment option not only for patients with quiescent disease but also for those who have flare-ups. There are a variety of 5-ASA preparations with subtle yet important differences in doses, route of administration, release profile, site of maximal efficacy, side effects, and treatment costs. It is important for patients to understand the important aspects of the treatment therapy because those who adhere to their treatment are more likely to have favourable outcomes. The role of specialist nursing support in the management of ulcerative colitis cannot be overstated. Specialist nurses can play a valuable role not only in the initiation of 5-ASA treatment for their colitic patients, but also in the collaborative management and empowering of the patients.