Treatments for Crohn’s Disease
There is not yet a cure for Crohn’s disease so the primary goal of treatment is reduce the inflammation in the affected areas of your digestive tract. (Why hasn’t a cure been found for Crohn’s disease?) Doctors typica…
Imuran (Azathioprine) and 6-MP (6-Mercaptopurine)
What is it? 6-MP (6-Mercaptopurine) and Imuran (Azathioprine) are under the class of medications called immunosuppressants. They work by suppressing a part of the immune system that is overacting and responsible for …
Humira (Adalimumab)
What is it? Humira is a protein that partially inhibits the activity of the immune system by blocking the inflammatory molecules causing inflammation. By blocking its activity, inflammation is reduced allowing your b…
Remicade (Infliximab)
What is it? Remicade (Infliximab) is a protein that partially inhibits the activity of the immune system by blocking the inflammatory molecules causing inflammation. By blocking its activity, inflammation is reduced….
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
What is it? Methotrexate is under a class of medications called immunosuppressants. It works by partially inhibiting the activities of the immune system which results in a decrease in inflammation. Why do I need t…
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Sulfasalazine
What is it? Sulfasalazine is under a class of medications called 5-aminosalicylates (5-ASA). It works as an anti-inflammatory by limiting the production of certain chemical products that are toxic to cells in the GI …
Prednisone
What is it? Prednisone is under a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works by suppressing the immune system which results in a decrease in the inflammatory reaction within the GI tract. Why do I need th…
Entocort (Budesonide)
What is it? Entocort is under a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works by suppressing the immune system which reduces the inflammatory response within the GI tract. Why do I need this medication? T…
What New Therapies for Crohn’s and Colitis Can We Expect?
Recent advances in our understanding of how both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis develop, have led to research that explores new avenues for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While none of the therap…
Common Side Effects of Medications for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
There are many benefits to using medications for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis such as controlling symptoms, and in the case of anti-TNFs (i.e. Remicade, Humira, etc.), reducing the risk of surgery or hospital…
Rare Side Effects of Medications for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Medications often play an important role in the lives of people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. An important part of the discussion that doctors have with patients, is discussing the risks (i.e. side effe…