Medications for ulcerative colitis cannot actually cure ulcerative colitis itself. But they can help provide some relief for the pain and discomfort 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 is a medication that treats ulcerative colitis by combining sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, or 5-ASA The of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-ASA to the intestines. Sulfapyridine, however, causes side effects is some patients, including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache.
Aminosalicylates - Aminosalicylates also contain some 5-ASA. But they don’t contain sulfapyridine, and therefore you don’t get any of the side effects mentioned above. . Aminosalicylates come from salicylic acid. They seem to have antioxidant properties. 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 beneficial when the patient has a relapse.
Corticosteroids - These are made up of several different kinds of drugs, including hydrocortisone, prednisone and methylprednisone. Their primary benefit is that they reduce inflammation. These medications tend to be most effective in cases where ulcerative colitis is described as moderate or 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.
Immunomodulators - Immunomodulators limit swelling and inflammation by working with the human immune system. Patients who have become dependent on corticosteroids, or have had no success with corticosteroids or 5-ASAs, are candidates for this method of ulcerative colitis treatment. They can be administered orally, so many patients prefer them over other delivery methods. 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 was previously mentioned, there’s no known permanent cure for ulcerative colitis. 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
* symptom severity
* any possible complications
* possible side effects
* the success - or lack thereof - of previous medications and therapies
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 treatments and causes of ulcerative colitis to learn more about colon health. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and television reporter with a special interest in health and fitness topics.