Relapse Rates and Predictors Following Azathioprine Withdrawal in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: Azathioprine (AZA) is widely used for maintaining remission in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but the implications of its withdrawal remain unclear. This study evaluates relapse rates after AZA discontinuation in adult IBD patients in remission and identifies predictors of relapse. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251016594). Databases were searched from inception to 4 January 2025, including RCTs and cohort studies involving adult IBD patients who discontinued AZA in clinical remission. The main outcome assessed was relapse incidence, with additional outcomes covering time until relapse, predictors of relapse, and management following relapse. Random-e

SUBMITTER: Al Abdulqader A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12524840 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature