Ulcerative Colitis Medications Getting Relief From Painful Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms

Medications for ulcerative colitis cannot actually cure ulcerative colitis itself

. Nonetheless, they can be very helpful in controlling the discomfort of ulcerative colitis sympoms. Another important reason for taking ulcerative colitis medications is to promote remission and keep it going.

The following medications for ulcerative colitis are used most often by doctors.

Sulfasalazine - Sulfasalazine combines two other drugs, sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, which is often simply called 5-ASA. The of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-ASA to the intestines. The problem with sulfapyridine is a range of possible side effects, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and headache.

Aminosalicylates - Some 5-ASA is also part of this drug, but there's no sulfapyridine. So it's often used by people who experience side effects when they take aminosalyicylates. . Aminosalicylates derive from salicylic acid, and appear to be a form of antiocidant. Depending on the location of the colitis, these medications are may be taken orally, administered by enema or suppositories. Many healthcare providers prefer to use aminosalicylates first when they're treating ulcerative colitis. They can also be useful for treatment when relpases happen.

Corticosteroids - These combine a number of medications, including prednisone, methylprednisone, and hydrocortisone. 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.. The location of the inflammation in your colon will determine your doctor's choice of delivery method. 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 - Immunomodulators work through the immune system, and they effectively limit inflammation. When corticosteroids and 5-ASA's haven't worked, or the patient has become dependent on corticosteroids, then immunomodulators are a frequent option. Many patients like them because they can be taken orally. 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 - 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. Other medications are sometimes prescribed too in order to help the patient cope with diarrhea, infection, or general discomfort caused by the condition.

Once again, doctors know of no long-lasting 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 pain is being caused by your symptoms

* any possible complications

* any side effects you may have to face

* other ulcerative colitis medications that have worked - or not worked - previously

Every patient's quality of life is influenced in a different way by ulcerative colitis. While there are obvious similarities, no two people respond the same way.. 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.

by: Neal Kennedy

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