Nicotine therapy for ulcerative colitis: a review of rationale, mechanisms, pharmacology, and clinical results.

Abstract

Smoking is protective against developing ulcerative colitis. Nicotine may be the cause of this protective effect. Controlled trials have demonstrated efficacy of transdermal nicotine for active ulcerative colitis. Side effects observed with transdermal nicotine include contact dermatitis, nausea, and lightheadedness. Topical administration of nicotine to the colon reduces nicotine blood concentrations and side effects, and may be of clinical benefit.

• Authors: W J Sandborn
• Journal: The American journal of gastroenterology (Am J Gastroenterol) Vol. 94 Issue 5 Pg. 1161-71 (May 1999) ISSN: 0002-9270 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10235187 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Nicotine

Topics

• Colitis, Ulcerative (drug therapy)
• Humans
• Nicotine (adverse effects, pharmacology, therapeutic use)