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Medications for ulcerative colitis cannot actually cure ulcerative colitis itself. their major benefit is in reducing the discomfort that is typically caused by ulcerative colitis symptoms. one of the other primary reasons for using ulcerative colitis medications is to reach a stage of remission and hold it.
Here’s a list, including a brief description, of the most commonly used ulcerative colitis medications.
Sulfasalazine – this medication combines sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid (often abbreviated as 5-ASA). the of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-ASA to the intestines. the problem with sulfapyridine is a range of possible side effects, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and headache.
Aminosalicylates – these also contain a 5-ASA as a component. But since there’s no sulfapyridine, it is free of side effects, and therefore it’s often the choice of people who can’t take sulfapyridine. . Aminosalicylates come from salicylic acid. They seem to have antioxidant properties. Your doctor can suggest several different methods for administering aminosalicylates: by mouth, by suppository, of with an enema. this is often the first choice of healthcare providers when treating for ulcerative colitis. They’re also used frequently when relapses occur.
Corticosteroids – there are several medication combined in this treatment: hydrocortisone prednisone and methylprednisone. the main benefit of corticosteroids is their ability to reduce inflammation and therefore relieve the discomfort of symptoms. Patients usually respond well to corticosteroids when they have ulcerative colitis that’s described as moderate to severe. They can be taken orally, intravenously, by enema or suppository.. Your doctor will recommend a delivery method based on where the inflammation is located in your colon. Corticosteroids are often extremely effective when used in the short term. side effects tend to crop up when they are used for extended periods. these side effects include acne, bone mass loss, diabetes, facial hair, hypertension, moodiness, increased risk of infection. and weight gain.
Immunomodulators – Immunomodulators limit swelling and inflammation by working with the human immune system. If a patient has had no success with 5-ASA’s and corticosteroids, or has become dependent on corticosteroids, then immunomodulators would probably be prescribed. They’re popular with many patients because they are taken by mouth. But immunomodulators also have several downsides. first, it can take months before the full benefit is realized (sometimes as many as six). there can also be complications and side effects, including pancreatitis, hepatitis, a low white blood cell count, and an increased risk of infection.
Cyclosporine A – this medication is generally good for patients who are trying to cope with active, severe ulcerative colitis. it is also often used with patients who are not responding to intravenous corticosteroids. Sometimes it’s used in combination with 6-MP or azathioprine. the patient may also be prescribed other medications to help hium or her relax and deal with pain, diarrhea, or infections.
As mentioned above, ulcerative colitis cannot be cured, except by surgically removing the colon. But medications for ulcerative colitis can be beneficial by preventing flare ups, minimizing inflammation and delaying the need for surgery.
Your doctor will evaluate a number of factors in deciding on the appropriate ulcerative colitis medication for you. among these factors are
* how much discomfort your symptoms are causing * the range of possible complications* possible side effects* any other ulcerative colitis treatments you have previously tried
Although many similarities exist from one case to another, ulcerative colitis affects different individuals in different ways.. so, your doctor may have to try different options before he or she finds the one – or combination – that is appropriate for you.
Click on ulcerative colitis medications and symptoms of ulcerative colitis to learn more about the colon. Neal Kennedy is a former TV and radio reporter with a special interest in medical subjects.