Which medication interferes with folate absorption in IBD patients?

The correct answer is that Pentasa, which is a formulation of mesalamine, has been associated with potential interference with folate absorption in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Medications like Pentasa are 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) compounds used to treat inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis.

Patients with IBD may already struggle with nutrient absorption due to the disease's impact on the intestinal mucosa. When medications, especially those that can interfere with gastrointestinal function or nutritional absorption, are introduced, careful monitoring is necessary to prevent deficiencies. In this case, some studies suggest that mesalamine may be linked to decreased folate levels, which are crucial for DNA synthesis and cellular repair.

In contrast, prednisone is a corticosteroid that can have various side effects but does not typically affect folate absorption directly. Aminosalicylates, which include a broad range of compounds like mesalamine, can have effects similar to those of Pentasa, but the specific interaction with folate is more strongly documented with Pentasa in this context. While mesalamine is often well-tolerated and associated with fewer side effects, its specific formulations, like Pentasa, can still carry these