Patterns of 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine maintenance therapy among a cohort of commercially insured individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease in the United States.

Background And Aims: Thiopurines, including 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) and azathioprine (AZA), are the mainstay of maintenance therapy for Crohn's disease (CD). However, studies examining their effectiveness in routine practice among diverse patient populations are lacking. Among a cohort of new users of 6MP/AZA, we described treatment patterns and changes in subsequent therapy.

International variation in medication prescription rates among elderly patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Background And Aims: The elderly represent a growing demographic of patients with IBD. No study has previously described variations in care or medication prescriptions in senior patients with IBD. We compared prescription rates among elderly patients with IBD in four countries using health administrative data.

Burden of gastrointestinal disease in the United States: 2012 update.

Background & Aims: Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases account for substantial morbidity, mortality, and cost. Statistical analyses of the most recent data are necessary to guide GI research, education, and clinical practice. We estimate the burden of GI disease in the United States.