Determining Guidelines for Local Ambulatory Care During Flare-Ups of Mild to Moderate Ulcerative Colitis for Effective Control of the Disease at Home

Abstract

Background: Conventionally, the treatment of ulcerative colitis flares is done on an inpatient basis due to the need for treatment with injectable drugs, but mini flare-ups treatment is generally non-injectable, and mini flare-ups of ulcerative colitis can potentially be managed on an outpatient basis and at home. Given the lack of localized clinical guidelines for managing ulcerative colitis mini flares, this study collected and synthesized expert opinions on treating mini flare-ups in outpatients and at home. Methods: In this study, the opinions of Iranian experts were examined using a questionnaire and their opinions were summarized. The findings of the studies and the compilation of experts' opinions were used to design an outpatient care guideline for the treatment of ulcerative colitis mini-flares. Findings: Self-care training and the level of awareness of patients are effective in controlling mini flare-ups, and the use of 5-ASA and oral and rectal corticosteroids is recommended in the treatment of mini flare-ups. Also, modifying the diet in patients was considered beneficial. In this study, the administration of probiotics and biomolecular drugs on an outpatient basis in mini flare-ups was not recommended. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the mini flare-ups treatment was recommended on an outpatient basis and at home. This recommendation requires consideration of the patient's access to medical centers and the awareness levels of both the patient and caregivers. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.