MMX Mesalamine for Induction and Maintenance Therapy in Mild-to-Moderate Ulcerative Colitis

Two 8-week, randomized, placebo-controlled parent studies, SPD476-301 (by Lichtenstein and associates) and SPD476-302 (by Kamm and colleagues), of MMX Multi Matrix System (MMX) mesalamine have evaluated the induction of remission in ulcerative colitis patients, and a third study has evaluated the maintenance of remission in patients from these parent studies. Here, we examine data only from patients who received MMX mesalamine 2.4 g or 4.8 g daily in these trials. In total, 63.6% of patients (220/346) achieved remission following 8-16 weeks of MMX mesalamine therapy. Among these 220 eligible patients, 218 entered the 12-month maintenance phase, and of this group, 89.9% (196/218) were relapse-free at study end. Overall, 56.6% (196/346) of patients who started MMX mesalamine therapy both achieved and maintained remission for 12 months. The adverse-event profile of MMX mesalamine was similar to the profile of the parent studies' placebo arms at all doses and frequencies. Therefore, the majority of patients with active, mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis can achieve remission, including complete symptom resolution and mucosal healing, and remain relapse-free for at least 1 year with MMX mesalamine.

MMX mesalamine in ulcerative colitis: Major advantages towards classical mesalamine formulations

Medical therapy is the cornerstone of ulcerative colitis (UC) management and aims to induce and maintain remission. In case of mild-to-moderate UC, mesalamine (5-ASA) is the first-line option. 5-ASA requires local release at the level of the inflamed mucosa to exert its therapeutic action. While rectal preparations are useful in distal colitis, in cases of UC of at least rectosigmoid extent, guidelines suggest the association of oral and rectal 5-ASA. Mesalamine with Multi Matrix System® technology (MMX mesalamine) is an oral, high-strength (1.2 g/tablet), once-daily formulation of 5-ASA, designed to provide delayed and prolonged release throughout the entire colon. Clinical trials demonstrated a strong efficacy in inducing and maintaining clinical and endoscopic remission in active mild-to-moderate UC. The efficacy is related to specific colonic drug-delivery, to its high-dosage and once-daily administration, thus improving patients' adherence and outcomes. The specific colonic-delivery is also associated with very low rates of systemic absorption and adverse events (AEs). With this comprehensive review we aimed to summarize current knowledge on MMX mesalamine in mild-to-moderate UC, in terms of clinical pharmacology, efficacy and safety, also compared to other 5-ASA products. In addition we provided an expert opinion on the topic, examining the implications on clinical practice.