Recommendations for New Trials of Currently Available Therapy by the IOIBD Task Force on Clinical Trials*

As part of the review process before defining a new clinical agenda for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, a survey of gastroenterologísts expert in the therapy of inflammatory bowel disease was performed. Many of those who participated in the survey were members of the IOIBD (International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease). The survey was discussed and modified by members of the IOIBD Task Force on Clinical Trials. This report summarizes the opinions of members of the Task Force. Although the Task Force looks forward with optimism to the development of new and novel medications, it is clear that for many years to come, therapy for inflammatory bowel disease will be based on currently available medications. Despite years of experience and numerous trials, however, many questions remain to be answered. The focus of pharmacotherapy should be the provision of therapy that is safe, associated with minimal...