Colazal vs Sulfazine

Hi Dr.  I was dx w/ UC about 1-1/2 years ago.  I have been on prednisone for that amount of time to deal w/ an auto-immune systemic vasculitis (which I believe is causing the UC type symptoms).  Every time I get to 10mg prednisone or lower, UC type symptoms reappear ... blood/mucous.  This has been the one issue (of all my issues) that seems to be unmaintained and keeping me from a successful steroid taper.  Since dx, I've tried everything from canassa, colazal, colocort with no relief.  Initially Colazal worked wonders, but over time, the symptoms returned regardless of my continued use.  I recently started Sulfazine in lieu of Colazal and my symptoms have all but disappeared (for the time being anyway).  I'm incredibly happy about this!!  Can you tell me why one would work so well over the other?  Is there a chance I'll develop a tolerance for this drug as well?  Is this a maintenance drug that should be taken indefinitely?  Any harm in long-term usage?  Thank you in advance!!

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
  Colazal  and sulfazine belong to the same group of drugs. Colazal is better than other drugs especially in patients with left sided UC.
Sulfazine is found to be better for maintenance therapy once the symptoms are controlled.
It has to be continued indefinitely as maintenance therapy and it is relatively safe.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.