There have been a number of exciting advancements and changes in the gastroenterology field over the last few years. A new mesalamine formulation, balsalazide disodium, is now available for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). Balsalazide may be utilized as first line therapy for patients with UC, or patients who are intolerant to other mesalamine preparations. In the area of irritable bowel syndrome, alosetron was removed from the market after reports that it was associated with severe constipation and death, although a causal relationship could not be established. Published data examines the risk of certain medications and the development of reflux disease and esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Also, new proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are available, esomeprazole, as well as alternate methods of administration for others. The first intravenous PPI, pantoprazole, is available in the United States, although currently there is a paucity of data regarding its efficacy. Peptic ulcer disease is also discussed, including Helicobacter pylori resistance, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the treatment of bleeding ulcers. With pegylated interferon, progress in the treatment of hepatitis C offers promise for many patients. This review will highlight many recent changes in gastroenterology an offer a perspective on how disease management has changed.
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