The nurse is caring for a patient with acute ulcerative colitis flare-up. The provider wants to start the patient on medication. Which medications are appropriate for use in ulcerative colitis? (Select All that Apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Ciprofloxacin: Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, but it is not typically used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis unless there is a secondary infection. It does not directly address the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis. B. Golimumab: Golimumab is a biologic medication (TNF-alpha inhibitor) used for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. It helps to reduce inflammation in the colon and is appropriate for use during a flare-up of ulcerative colitis. C. Sumatriptan: Sumatriptan is a medication used to treat migraines and does not have a role in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. It does not affect the inflammatory processes involved in ulcerative colitis. D. Ibuprofen: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen should be avoided in patients with ulcerative colitis because they can exacerbate symptoms, cause irritation, and potentially worsen the disease by increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. E. Aspirin: Aspirin is also an NSAID (acetylsalicylic acid). Similar to ibuprofen, NSAIDs like aspirin can worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms, increase inflammation, and irritate the gastrointestinal lining. Therefore, aspirin is generally avoided in clients with ulcerative colitis F. Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid used for managing acute flare-ups of ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon and is commonly prescribed during active flare-ups to control symptoms.