Ulcerative colitis medications are not considered a cure for the condition 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.

The following medications are used most frequently by medical professionals for ulcerative colitis treatment.

Sulfasalazine – This is a medication that treats ulcerative colitis by combining sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, or 5-ASA The function 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 – some 5-ASA is also part of this drug, but there’s no sulfapyridine. So it’s often used by people who experience side effects when they take sulfapyridine. Aminosalicylates derive from salicylic acid, and appear to be a form of antioxidant. They can be taken in a number of different ways, depending on the location of the colitis: by enema, suppositiories, or orally. Many healthcare providers prefer to use aminosalicylates first when they’re treating ulcerative colitis. They can also be useful for treatment when relapses happen.

Corticosteroids – these medications for ulcerative colitis include prednisone, methylprednisone, and hydrocortisone. They’re particularly effective in reducing inflammation. Patients with moderate to severe cases of ulcerative colitis tend to benefit most from corticosteroid treatment. Delivery methods include enema, suppository, or a pill taken orally. They can also be administered intravenously.. Your health care provider will choose the appropriate delivery method based on the location of the inflammation in your colon. Corticosteroids are better when used in the short term. But they have been known to cause side effects in the long term, including weight gain, risk of infection. mood swings, hypertension, facial hair, diabetes, bone mass loss, and acne.

Immunomodulators – Immunomodulators limit swelling and inflammation by working with the human immune system. Immunomodulators are usually recommended when other methods haven’t worked, or when the patient has become dependent of corticosteroids. They’re the favored choice of many patients because they can be 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 treatment is most appropriate for patients whose ulcerative colitis is active and severe, and when intravenous drugs are ineffective. it is often used in combination with 6-MP or azathioprine. at the same time cyclosporine a treatment is being administered, the doctor may also prescribe other medications to help the patient cope with diarrhea, infection and other discomfort.

As was mentioned before, no permanent cure for ulcerative colitis has been found. However, medications for ulcerative colitis can help prevent flare ups and keep down inflammation. Plus, they can reduce or delay 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 * any possible complications* side effects and how they may impact your situation* other treatments or medications you have tried in the past  every patient responds to ulcerative colitis in their own way. It’s not the same for everyone. Therefore, you and your doctor may have to try several possibilities before the right treatment – or combination of treatments – becomes apparent.

Click on ulcerative colitis medications and ulcerative colitis to learn more about colon health. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and TV reporter with a special interest in health and fitness subjects.