Why do we Still Use 5-ASAs in Crohn's Disease?

Over the past two decades there has been an expanding database regarding the role of aminosalicylates for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD). While initial evidence demonstrated a small, but clinically significant benefit for sulfasalazine in mild-moderate CD and the initial experience with mesalamine formulations was positive; evolving data from large, follow-up Phase III and investigator-initiated trials in active disease and in postoperative disease have been less supportive of an overall role. Nevertheless, there continues to be clinical support for treatment of mild, inflammatory CD with aminosalicylates and for maintaining 5-ASA induced remissions in responding patients.