Current Concepts of the Medical Management of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis, though presenting a difficult therapeutic problem, is capable of responding to prolonged and comprehensive medical management. The important therapeutic measures include rest, the use of sedatives and antispasmodics, nutritional and electrolyte repletion, transfusions of blood or plasma, injection of iron for iron-deficiency anemia, antibacterial medication, especially use of sulfonamides and skillful attention to the emotional problems. ACTH and various adrenal steroids are useful adjuncts to therapy, initiating and potentiating recovery, facilitating control of severe recurrences, and providing an opportunity for "total treatment." These compounds can be administered effectively for long periods with a relatively low incidence of serious complications.