Currently the only known treatment for celiac disease is a gluten free diet. While the diet is highly effective, many patients with celiac disease will still experience symptoms while following a gluten free diet. Some of these issues may relate to cross contamination events; some may relate to incomplete healing of the intestine causing irritable bowel like symptoms.
Larazotide is a medication currently being researched for the treatment of persistent symptoms in the setting of celiac disease in patients following a gluten free diet. It is felt to limit the inflammation from gluten exposure by tightening the junctions between the cells that line the small intestines.
I am excited about the promise of a new therapy for celiac disease and the potential to offer options other than a gluten free diet. I am also excited that Allegiance Research Specialists has partnered with us at GI Associates to be a study site for the medication.
Details on the study may be found at www.celiac-study.com.
Allegiance can be contacted at 414-727-8131 or through their website.
