• 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 16 (1), 157-159
Abstract
Rectal dialysis was used in vivo to assess mucosal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release and water and electrolyte transport before and 2 wk after withdrawal of oral sulfasalazine in 8 patients with inactive ulcerative colitis. Although rectal mucosal PGE2 release was unaffected by withdrawal of sulfasalazine, significant reductions in mucosal potential difference (P < 0.01) and net absorption of water (P < 0.05), Na (P < 0.05) and Cl occurred (P < 0.05%). Clinical assessment showed no change in disease activity. Sulfasalazine withdrawal has a detrimental effect on large intestinal salt and water transport, which apparently is not mediated through changes in net mucosal prostaglandin production.