Research continues into ways to treat patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Therapies being tested for their usefulness include:

• Biologic agents. Molecules (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, interferons) made by living organisms that are modified so they act in a specific way, with as few side effects as possible. These are currently being studied for use in treating UC.
  
  
• Anticoagulants. Medications that prevent blood from clumping together (clotting). Some types are being tested for use in managing UC symptoms. Why these medications appear to help patients with UC is not clear.
  
  
• Foam formula aminosalicylate. Rectally administered foam delivers an aminosalicylate directly to the site of inflammation. Foam may be an improvement over liquid enemas since it may be more easily retained in the bowel. This has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not available in the United States.
  
  
• Nicotine patches. Medicated patches applied to a patient’s skin that deliver nicotine, the addictive chemical found in tobacco. These patches are similar to the type used by smokers to avoid withdrawal symptoms when they quit smoking. Although the reasons for it are unclear, nicotine patches appear to provide short-term relief from UC symptoms, especially in patients who formerly smoked cigarettes. However, nicotine therapy is experimental – it is not recommended that patients with UC use patches or start smoking to treat their symptoms.
  
  
• Omega-3 fatty acids. Found in fish oil, these fatty acids interfere with the inflammatory process, possibly benefiting patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as UC. One form being studied is a liquid supplement that contains omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and soluble fiber that can be taken orally. This supplement appears to reduce the need for corticosteroids when treating UC.
  
  
• Probiotics. The use of probiotics (dietary supplements containing potentially beneficial bacteria) to reduce inflammation caused by UC is being explored.