When you're living with IBD, finding the right treatment can make all the difference in managing your symptoms and maintaining your quality of life. But with so many different medications available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the options.
In this article, we'll break down some of the most common medications used to treat IBD and what you need to know about each one.
Corticosteroids
These medications, such as prednisone and budesonide, work by reducing inflammation in the gut. They can be effective for short-term symptom relief, but long-term use can have side effects like weight gain, mood changes, and increased risk of infection.
Corticosteroids are typically used as a short-term treatment for IBD flare-ups, but not for long-term maintenance.
Immunomodulators
These drugs, like azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine, work by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation. They can take longer to start working than corticosteroids, but they're often used for maintenance therapy to prevent flare-ups.
Immunomodulators can have side effects like nausea, vomiting, and increased risk of infection, and may take several weeks to months to become effective.
Biologics
Biologic drugs like infliximab, adalimumab, and vedolizumab target specific proteins in the immune system to reduce inflammation. They're often used for moderate to severe cases of IBD and can be administered via injection or infusion.
Biologics can be effective for inducing and maintaining remission, but can have side effects like increased risk of infection, allergic reactions, and increased risk of some types of cancer.
Aminosalicylates
Aminosalicylates are anti-inflammatory drugs that can be effective for mild to moderate cases of IBD. They include medications like mesalamine, sulfasalazine, and olsalazine. Aminosalicylates work by reducing inflammation in the gut lining, and can be taken orally or in suppository form.
They are generally well-tolerated, but can have side effects like headaches, nausea, and abdominal pain.
JAK inhibitors
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors like tofacitinib and upadacitinib are a newer class of drugs that work by blocking enzymes that contribute to inflammation. They're approved for use in ulcerative colitis and are being studied for use in Crohn's disease.
JAK inhibitors can have side effects like increased risk of infection, high blood pressure, and liver problems.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the bowel. This is often a last resort option when other treatments have failed. Surgery can have risks like bleeding, infection, and the need for a temporary or permanent ostomy bag.
By working with your doctor and understanding your options, you can find the right treatment plan for your unique needs. It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of each medication with your doctor, as well as any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.
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