Aminosalicylate monitoring in primary care: an audit and protocol

Primary care practitioners in the UK today undertake more responsibility for the management of chronic diseases than ever before, including the monitoring of medications initiated in the secondary care setting. This has not necessarily been accompanied by the introduction of guidelines or additional funding. Examining the aminosalicylate group of drugs (sulfasalazine, mesalazine, olsalazine and balsalazide), it was found that despite their potential to cause life‐threatening adverse reactions, there is no agreed protocol on the most appropriate type and frequency of monitoring. A search of the literature confirmed that there is a paucity of evidence from which to construct a guideline. An audit of one family practice suggests current levels fall short of a minimal standard. Based on the current best available evidence, a protocol is suggested for aminosalicylate monitoring. Other groups of drugs warrant similar attention in primary care, and issues regarding funding for the responsibility and cost of monitoring need addressing.