5-ASA enema therapy.

5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) enema therapy has been a direct extension of our understanding of the pharmacology and metabolism of sulfasalazine. Clinical studies have documented the efficacy and safety of topical 5-ASA therapy in distal ulcerative colitis. Future clinical experience should clarify the role of topical 5-ASA in a variety of inflammatory bowel disease syndromes.