Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Ulcerative Colitis

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the digestive tract.

Explanation:

• Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum.
• Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly, and include diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, rectal pain, rectal bleeding, urgency to defecate, weight loss, fatigue, fever, and failure to grow in children.
• Risk factors may include age, race or ethnicity, and family history.
• Treatment may include anti-inflammatory drugs such as 5-aminosalicylates and corticosteroids; immune system suppressants such as azathioprine, cyclosporine, and Xeljanz; biologics such as Remicade, Entyvio, and Stelara; and anti-diarrheal medications, pain relievers, antispasmodics, and iron supplements.

Reference:

Ulcerative colitis - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic