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IBD mesalazine monitoring — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateGastrointestinal TherapeuticsIBD mesalazine monitoringGPhC CRA

A patient newly started on oral mesalazine for ulcerative colitis asks why the GP has requested blood and urine tests. They have no symptoms today. What monitoring is required?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Monitor renal function because mesalazine can cause renal toxicity

Mesalazine can rarely cause renal impairment, so renal function monitoring is required before and during treatment according to local protocols. The patient should also report worsening diarrhoea, abdominal pain or signs of intolerance. INR and lithium monitoring are unrelated unless those medicines are also used. Peak flow and visual acuity are not the key safety tests.

Reference: BNF