Introduction Following induction of remission, the majority of patients with mild to moderate UC are on 5 ASA maintenance therapy in primary care. Lack of adherence to therapy and patient acceptance of poorer life quality lead to disease relapse, increased severity and complication which impact NHS resources.

Our aim was to evaluate the effect of changing to once daily (OD) Salofalk Granules in patients inadequately controlled on their current 5 ASA therapy.

Methods UC patients on 5 ASA therapy from 31 practices covering three CCGs were invited to attend a clinic at their practice. Disease activity (Walmsley Index, use of steroids, days off work and GP and hospital visits were assessed in the past 6 months. A subgroup was switched to Salofalk Granules OD maintenance therapy (main reasons tablet load and dosing frequency 65% and symptoms 29%). All parameters were reassessed 6 months later.

Results 158 patients had two complete assessments (99 stayed on current 5 ASA, 59 switched to Salofalk Granules) There was no difference in age, M:F ratio or UC subclass between the two groups. Patients changing to Salofalk Granules had a higher baseline Walmsley Index (2.78 vs 1.99; p < 0.01). On reassessment, in patients changed to Salofalk Granules there was a significant reduction in Walmsley Index 2.78 to 2.02, (p < 0.0001) vs. 1.99 to 2.01 (NS); more patients felt better (30/59 vs 3/99), fewer felt worse (1/59 vs. 8/99); Patients on Salofalk Granules also had 44% fewer GP visits, 87% fewer hospital visits, 86% fewer days off work and 56% fewer steroid courses. There was an annualised cost saving of £27,500

Conclusion In UC inadequately controlled on current 5 ASAs, changing to OD Salofalk Granules improved overall quality of care by improving disease outcomes, patient quality of life, reducing use of NHS resources and cost.

Disclosure of Interest D. Aldulaimi: None Declared, H. Prasher: None Declared, D. Farmer: None Declared, R. Jazrawi Conflict with: Dr R Jazrawi is medical Director of Dr Falk Pharma UK