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Ulcerative Colitis Medications: Getting Relief For Painful Ulcerative Colitis Signs And Symptoms

10th November, 2010 - Posted by health news - No Comments

Medications for ulcerarive colitis do not cure ulcerative colitis itself. 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 things ulcerative colitis medications can do for you is help you attain remission – and hold it.

Here’s a list, including a brief description, of the most commonly used ulcerative colitis medications.

Sulfasalazine – This medication combines sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid (often abbreviated as 5-ASA). The role of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-aminosalicyclic acid to the intestines. The problem with sulfapyridine is a range of possible side effects, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, 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 are made from salicylic acid, and there’s evidence they 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 doctors will try these medications first when treating ulcerative colitis. They can also be beneficial when the patient has a relapse.

Corticosteroids – Several drugs are combined to make up this ulcerative colitis treatment. They include hydrocortisone prednisone and methylprednisone. Their primary benefit is that they reduce inflammation. Patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis, or those who do not respond to 5-ASA’s are more likely to use this group. Delivery methods include enema, suppository, or a pill taken orally. They can also be administered intravenously.. The method of delivery will largely depend on the location of the colitis. Corticosteroids are appropriate for short term use. When used for longer periods, however, they can cause high blood pressure, facial hair, diabetes, bone mass loss, acne, weight gain, risk of infection, and mood swings.

Immunomodulators – Immunomodulators have an effect on the human immune system that results in reduced inflammation and swelling. 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’re popular with many patients because they are taken by mouth. However, they take a long time to work compared to other drugs, possibly as long as six months before the patient gets the full benefit.

Cyclosporine A – Doctors will sometime recommend cyclosporine A for patients who have not enjoyed success with intravenous treatments, or those who are suffering a lot of discomfort from ulcerative colitis symptoms. It is sometimes combined with 6-MP or azathioprine. While treatment with these medications is progressing, the patient may also need other drugs to help relax, get relief from pain,andr combat diarrhea or infection.

As was previously mentioned, there’s no known permanent cure for ulcerative colitis. But medications for ulcerative colitis can be beneficial by preventing flare ups, minimizing inflammation and delaying the need for surgery.

There are a variety of factors your healthcare provider will evaluate in recommending ulcerative colitis treatment. Among these are

* how much discomfort your symptoms are causing
* the range of possible complications
* any side effects you may have to face
* the success – or lack thereof – of previous medications and therapies

Although many similarities exist from one case to another, ulcerative colitis affects different individuals in different ways.. So there’s a possibility you and your doctor may have to try several treatment options before finding what’s best for your particular situation.

Click on treatment for colitis and ulcerative colitis causes and symptoms to learn more about the colon. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and TV reporter with a special interest in medical subjects.