LAUSR

It is now some 30 years since the introduction of micronutrient (antioxidant) supplementation into UK gastroenterology practice for the management of pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis. This therapeutic strategy was developed as an alternative to the use of opioids or surgery for pain relief. Supplementation comprises methionine, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, and is based on deficiencies of these nutrients identified in chronic pancreatitis and their role in protecting against free-radical-induced oxidative stress, implicated in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Four clinical trials have been carried out on this supplementation in chronic pancreatitis patients, three of which reported significant pain relief and improved quality of life. The supplementation is generally well tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported. Several recent meta-analyses have concluded that it provides a safe and effective therapy for pain relief in patients with chronic pancreatitis. This article docum...