Ulcerative colitis medications do not actually cure ulcerative colitis. they can, however, give the ulcerative colitis sufferer some relief from symptoms brought on by this condition which causes inflammation in the colon. One of the other primary reasons for using ulcerative colitis medications is to reach a stage of remission and hold it.

Healthcare providers typically use the following ulcerative colitis medications most often.

Sulfasalazine – Sulfasalazine is a combination of sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, which is also known as 5-ASA. The role of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-aminosalicyclic acid to the intestines. But sulfapyridine has a variety of possible effects like headaches, nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea.

Aminosalicylates – There’s also 5-ASA in this medication but no sulfapyridine. Therefore, it has no side effects and can be taken by those who can’t take aminosalyicylates.. Aminosalicylates are made from salicylic acid, and there’s evidence they have antioxidant properties. there are several ways these ulcerative colitis medications can be taken: orally, enema, or suppository. The delivery method depends on the location of the colitis. This group of ulcerative colitis medications is usually first treatment for individuals with colitis. they can also be beneficial when the patient has a relapse.

Corticosteroids – these are made up of several different kinds of drugs, including 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. Corticosteroids can be administered intravenously, orally, in suppository form, or through an enema.. your healthcare provider will choose the appropriate delivery method based on the location of the inflammation in your colon. Certicosteroids 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 – these have an effect on the immune system that reduces swelling and inflammation. Corticosteroids are usually recommended when corticosteroids and 5-ASA’s haven’t worked, or when the patient has become dependent of corticosteroids. They’re the most 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. other medications are sometimes prescribed too in order to help the patient cope with diarrhea, infection, or general discomfort caused by the condition.

As mentioned above, ulcerative colitis cannot be cured, except by surgically removing the colon. But ulcerative colitis medications are useful because they delay the need for surgery, keep inflammation to a minimum, and help prevent relapses and flare ups.

Your healcare provider will evaluate many factors in deciding on the best ulcerative colitis medication and course of treatment for you. The primary factors are

* how much pain is being caused by your symptoms

* the likelihood of complications

* any side effects you may have to face

* 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 treatments and ulcerative colitis to learn more about the colon. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and television talk show host with a special interest in medical subjects.