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aminosalcylates are a group of medicines used to treat and prevent flare-ups of ulcertive colist . there are quite a few available . the one that is best for you will depend upon where where the inflammation is in your gut.
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New Ulcerative Colitis Medications?
Pharmaceutical medicines are usually a doctor's first choice to treat ulcerative colitis. They are effective at controlling inflammation of the intestines while promoting the healing of damaged tissues. Some drugs can even promote remission of the disease. Particular treatments vary by severity of the disorder in a particular person.Mild to moderate ulcerative colitisMild to moderate ulcerative colitis is effectively managed with aminosalicylates, such as sulfasalazine or mesalamine. They relieve inflammation with few side effects. For those with mild conditions, the disorder often goes into remission and stays inactive. If symptoms continue past the first few weeks of treatment, corticosteroids are used in combination with aminosalicylates. These stronger drugs provide even more relief from inflammation, but are not recommended for long periods of use.Mild to moderate ulcerative colitis is effectively managed with a class of drugs called aminosalicylates that work to relieve intestinal inflammation and produce the least amount of side effects. Severe ulcerative colitisWhen aminosalicylates are not strong enough, other drugs and combinations are used to treat the most severe forms of ulcerative colitis. Since inflammation is much more intense, drugs that suppress the immune system as a whole are employed. They suppress immune response by reducing white blood cell counts or interfering with proteins responsible for inflammation. These drugs have more potent side effects and can make the patient susceptible to infection and sickness. Newer drugs on the market include azathioprine, cyclosporine and infliximab. In addition, intravenous corticosteroids are used in combination with immuno-supressors.Since the primary symptom of ulcerative colitis is inflammation of the intestines, almost every drug to treat it is aimed at reducing or interfering with the body's immune responses. All of these drugs have side effects, but they are generally mild. Each of these currently accepted treatments have a proven record of safety and efficacy. Before making decisions about which treatment is best for you or your loved one, speak thoroughly with a physician.
What are some of the prescribed medicines for Crohns Disease?
Crack * Aminosalicylates (such as sulfasalazine or mesalamine). These medicines help manage symptoms for many people who have Crohn's disease. * Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and metronidazole. These may be tried if aminosalicylates are not helping your symptoms. These medicines work especially well for disease in the colon. Antibiotics are also used to treat fistulas, which are abnormal connections or openings between two organs or parts of the body. But 50% of fistulas come back when antibiotics are stopped.2 * Corticosteroids (such as budesonide or prednisone). These may be given by mouth for a few weeks or months to control inflammation. But corticosteroids have serious side effects, such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and increased risk of infection. ** Budesonide causes remission in mild or moderate Crohn's disease of the ileum and the right colon. It does not work as well as prednisone or other corticosteroids. But it also does not have as many side effects as other corticosteroids. The long-term side effects are not well known, so your doctor will probably not have you take it for a long time. ** Prednisone may help if budesonide does not. * Medicines that suppress the immune system (called immunomodulator medicines), such as azathioprine (AZA), 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), or methotrexate. You may take these if the medicines listed above do not work, if your symptoms come back when you stop taking corticosteroids, or if your symptoms come back often, even with treatment. * Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, such as infliximab (Remicade). Your doctor may have you try these medicines if you have not had success with other medicines for Crohn's disease. In some cases, these medicines are tried before some of the other medicines that are listed above. Infliximab is also used to treat fistulas if antibiotics do not heal them. Other TNF antagonists may be used to treat Crohn's disease. They may work for people for whom infliximab has stopped working and for people who have a bad reaction to infliximab.
Common Ulcerative Colitis Medications?
What is Ulcerative Colitis?Ulcerative colitis is a disease that affects the inner lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis occurs when ulcers form on the inner lining of the large intestine, often extending all the way to the rectum. This chronic gastrointestinal tract inflammatory disease is one of the two forms of inflammatory bowel disease. The other form of inflammatory bowel disease is the perhaps more well-known disease called Crohn's disease. An individual with colitis often experiences symptoms such as rectal bleeding, fatigue, the formation of pus, weight loss and diarrhea.What Causes Ulcerative Colitis?Unfortunately, researchers and doctors do not know the exact cause of ulcerative colitis. Individuals with ulcerative colitis tend to have weak immune systems, but it is unsure whether this is the result of the disease. Researchers believe that colitis sufferer's immune system react unusually when the digestive tract senses bacteria. Ulcerative colitis may or may not be genetic, and it is known that the disease does not develop due to stress. However, emotional stress can often exasperate the disease's symptoms.How is Ulcerative Colitis Treated?An ulcerative colitis sufferer's treatment depends on the seriousness of the disease's damage and symptoms. The treatment options typically include medication, surgery to remove parts of the intestine and special ulcerative colitis diet. A doctor works with the colitis patient to find the best combination of treatment methods that works for the particular patient.What Medications Are Used?There is no known medical cure for ulcerative colitis, but there are several medications that are used to bring about remission. Many individuals experience months or even years of no symptoms when they are in remission due to medication. Aminosalicylates, given orally or rectally, are often used to control inflammation in the intestine. Corticosteroids, like prednisone and hydrocortisone, are typically used in patients who do not respond to the Aminosalicylates. Medications such as Imuran and Purinethol are often used to suppress the patient's immune system to reduce symptoms. Additionally, Infliximab is often prescribed to patients who do not respond to the other medication therapy options.
All About Ulcerative Colitis?
A type of inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, ulcerative colitis has no known cause. It affects any age, primarily ages 15 to 30 and 50 to 70 years of age. It affects the colon and rectum lining, giving abdominal and gastrointestinal symptoms.SymptomsAccording to A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia, the symptoms can include weight loss, rectal pain, fever, pus-filled stools, bloody stools, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, and abdominal sounds. There can be other symptoms that aren't as common that include skin lumps, skin ulcers, mouth sores, nausea, vomiting, joint swelling, joint pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding.TreatmentThere are different treatments for ulcerative colitis, including hospitalization, diet, medications, and surgery. Hospitalization occurs for more severe attacks. Diet for this type of condition includes high fiber foods, limiting dairy and fatty greasy foods, and drinking plenty of water. Medications that may help include corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and 5-aminosalicylates. These drugs help lower the frequency and amount of attacks.Surgery OptionSurgery is an option, including the removal of the colon. This lowers the colon cancer threat and cures ulcerative colitis. This is typically an option only when there are attacks that aren't responding to diet, medication, and other lifestyle modifications. If there are pre-cancerous cells in the colon's lining, it can be done as well. Lastly, for severe bleeding and ruptures of the colon, surgery will help. When the colon is removed, patients will need an ileostomy which is an opening in the abdominal wall to help eliminate waste.If you are having symptoms of ulcerative colitis, the tests that the doctor will do include a colonoscopy. This is a screening test where a flexible tube with a camera is eased into the rectum to show the inside of the colon. It can be done alone or with other tests that include a barium enema, c-reactive protein test, sedimentation rate test, and a complete blood count.
How To Treat Colitis?
Colitis is a condition in which the large intestines become inflamed. This can lead to the development of ulcers which may or may not bleed or release mucous. If the ulcers get infected, they may begin to release pus. This condition may appear suddenly and go away just as quickly, or it may recur for many years in the form of flare-ups. Either way, diarrhea from the condition can reach a severe level rather quickly. For this reason, treatment is very important.Treating the dehydrationThe first step in treating a colitis flare-up is to address the dehydration. Diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration very quickly, so patients should begin consuming sports drinks as soon as the diarrhea strikes. Water is not as good a choice because it does not contain electrolytes. In severe cases, doctors may use an IV to rehydrate a patient.Treating the colonColitis is generally treated with prescription drugs known as aminosalicylates. The most common brand names include Asacol, Octasa, Colazol and Dipentum. These are anti-inflammatory agents and reduce swelling in the colon. They are not readily absorbed in the intestines, so they tend to only work in this region.SteroidsDoctors also prescribe a class of steroids known as corticosteroids to patients who suffer from colitis. These block portions of the leukocyte adhesion cascade, a process that leads to inflammation in the colon.If the anti-inflammatory drugs the doctor has prescribed for colitis do not provide enough relief, he or she may consider prescribing a steroid, such as prednisone or hydrocortisone. ImmunosuppresentsImmunosuppressants are only prescribed in very severe cases. They inhibit the entire immune system and reduce the instance of flare-ups, but they also come with a long list of possible side effects.Patients with colitis must take their treatment very seriously. Doctors know which medications to prescribe under each circumstance, so a visit to an MD is never a bad idea.
Colitis: The Enemy Within?
Colitis, or ulcerative colitis, is an Inflammatory Bowel Disease thought to be an abnormal reaction by the immune system. It attacks the mucosal lining of the large intestine, starting at the rectum and spreading through the entire colon. Peak onset of disease activity is between 15-30 years of age, although it can come sooner or later. It affects males or females, with Ashkenazi Jewish descendants at a higher risk than other populations. There is no cure for colitis, only treatment to manage symptoms. Colitis often starts with bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain and frequent bowel movements. Fevers and weight loss may occur, making anemia and dehydration a concern. Symptoms range from mild to severe. Manifestations of the disease outside of the colon may include joint pain, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, gallstones, liver disease, eye problems and growth retardation in children. Diagnosis can be made through colonoscopy, biopsy, X-rays, CT scans and blood or stool testing. Medicines used to treat colitis are sulfasalazine, aminosalicylates, topical corticosteroid creams, prednisone, immunomodulating drugs, and infliximab, which is given intravenously. Surgeries are performed when medicine can no longer control symptoms. 25-35% of all colitis patients eventually need surgery. Surgery is curative for colitis. 95% of surgeries are elective, 5% are done because of complications or emergencies, such as toxic megacolon (distention of the bowel with air), bowel perforation, or sepsis. Colitis can also lead to cancer. Surgery usually involves removing the rectum and colon, called a proctocolectomy with an ileostomy, which means bringing the small intestine through the abdominal wall to empty into a pouch worn on the body. The intestine may also be shaped into a pouch, called a J pouch, and attached to the anus to preserve normal bowel function. Diet modification can help with symptoms, but doesn’t improve the inflammation. Individuals differ in their sensitivities, so each person will have to experiment to see what foods bother them. A good rule of thumb is to avoid anything known to aggravate diarrhea. Eating a healthy diet is important for good nutrition, because individuals can become malnourished and need supplements. Regular exercise is good, but it can make symptoms worse during severe illness.
What are the treatments for Crohn's disease?
The most common treatments for inducing remission in Crohn's disease continue to be oral or intravenous corticosteroid medications such as prednisone. They also have a role in managing less severe disease and in treating small bowel involvement. Steroids are used for short-term therapy and other medications are used to maintain remission following steroids. Steroids work by reducing inflammation throughout the body and thus long-term use is associated with many side effects like osteoporosis, diabetes, and hypertension. Promising results have been obtained with the use of budesonide (Entocort), a corticosteroid with high topical anti-inflammatory activity and low systemic activity. This medication, though costly, can reduce the intestinal inflammation while minimizing the side effects that would be commonly experienced with prednisone. Another category of drugs often used in Crohn's disease are the 5-aminosalicylates such as mesalamine (Asacol, Pentasa), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), and balsalazide (Colazal). These medicines are quite safe, but may require large doses. Immunomodulatory drugs such as azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), 6-mercaptopurine (Purinethol), or methotrexate are often effective in maintaining remission of Crohn's disease. These medications are used long-term and require monitoring to prevent adverse effects. They work by changing the way certain inflammatory cells in the intestinal lining respond to inflammatory triggers. Infliximab (Remicade) is another powerful anti-inflammatory drug that blocks the action of a specific molecule called tumour necrosis factor (TNF), this is a key mediator of the inflammatory process in Crohn's disease. It is indicated for perianal Crohn's disease or intestinal disease not responding to the usual first-line medications. This drug is actually a synthetic antibody and is given as an intravenous infusion for both induction and maintenance of remission. Important side effects of this medication are infusion reactions (rash, fever) and, rarely, serious infections. Other medications known as biologicals, of which infliximab is one, are being studied and may emerge as viable therapies for Crohn's disease in the future.
Ulcerative colitis?
DefinitionUlcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum.See also: Crohn's diseaseAlternative NamesInflammatory bowel disease - ulcerative colitis; IBD - ulcerative colitisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThe cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. It may affect any age group, although there are peaks at ages 15 - 30 and then again at ages 50 - 70.The disease usually begins in the rectal area and may eventually extend through the entire large intestine. Repeated swelling (inflammation) leads to thickening of the wall of the intestine and rectum with scar tissue. Death of colon tissue or sepsis (severe infection) may occur with severe disease.The symptoms vary in severity and may start slowly or suddenly. Many factors can lead to attacks, including respiratory infections or physical stress.Risk factors include a family history of ulcerative colitis, or Jewish ancestry.SymptomsAbdominal painand cramping that usually disappears after a bowel movementAbdominal sounds (a gurgling or splashing sound heard over the intestine)Diarrhea, from only a few episodes to very often throughout the day (blood and mucus may be present)FeverTenesmus(rectal pain)Weight lossOther symptoms that may occur with ulcerative colitis include the following:Gastrointestinal bleedingJoint painNausea and vomitingSigns and testsColonoscopy with biopsy is generally used to diagnose ulcerative colitis.Colonoscopy is also used to screen people with ulcerative colitis for colon cancer. Ulcerative colitis increases the risk of colon cancer. If you have this condition, you should be screened with colonoscopy about 8-12 years after being diagnosed. You should have a follow-up colonoscopy every 1-2 years.Othe tests that may be done to help diagnose this condition include:Barium enemaComplete blood count (CBC)C-reactive protein (CRP)Sedimentation rate (ESR)TreatmentThe goals of treatment are to:Control the acute attacksPrevent repeated attacksHelp the colon healHospitalization is often required for severe attacks. Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. You may be given nutrients through an intravenous (IV) line (through a vein).DIET AND NUTRITIONCertain types of foods may worsen diarrhea and gas symptoms, especially during times of active disease. Diet suggestions:Eat small amounts of food throughout the day.Drink lots of water (frequent consumption of small amounts throughout the day).Avoid high-fiber foods (bran, beans, nuts, seeds, and popcorn).Avoid fatty greasy or fried foods and sauces (butter, margarine, and heavy cream).Limit milk products if you are lactose intolerant,. Dairy products are a good source of protein and calcium.Avoid or limit alcohol and caffeine.MEDICATIONSMedications that may be used to decrease the number of attacks include:5-aminosalicylates such as mesalamine or sulfazineImmunomodulators such as azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurineCorticosteroids (prednisone and methylprednisolone) taken by mouth during a flareup or as a rectal suppository, foam, or enemaInfliximab (Remicade) to treat patients who do not respond to other medicationsSURGERYSurgery to remove the colon will cure ulcerative colitis and removes the threat of colon cancer. Surgery is usually for patients who have:Colitis that does not respond to complete medical therapyChanges in the lining of their colon that are felt to be precancerous.Serious complications such as rupture (perforation) of the colon, severe bleeding (hemorrhage), or toxic megacolonMost of the time, the entire colon, including the rectum, is removed. Afterwards, patients may need an ileoostomy (a surgical opening in the abdominal wall), or a procedure that connects the small intestine to the anus to help the patient gain more normal bowel function.See also:Total prolectomy with ileostomyTotal proctolectomy and ileal-anal pouchSupport GroupsSocial support can often help with the stress of dealing with illness, and support group members may also have useful tips for finding the best treatment and coping with the condition.For more information visit the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) web site at www.ccfa.org.Expectations (prognosis)About half of patients with ulcerative colitis have mild symptoms. Patients with more severe ulcerative colitis tend to respond less well to medications.Permanent and complete control of symptoms with medications is unusual. Cure is only possible through complete removal of the large intestine.The risk of colon cancer increases in each decade after ulcerative colitis is diagnosed.ComplicationsAnkylosing spondylitisBlood clotsColorectal cancerColon narrowingComplications of corticosteroid therapyImpaired growth and sexual development in childrenInflammation of the joints (arthritis)Lesions in the eyeLiver diseaseMassive bleeding in the colonMouth ulcersPyoderma gangrenosum (skin ulcer)Tears or holes (perforation) in the colonCalling your health care providerCall your health care provider if you develop persistent abdominal pain, new or increased bleeding, persistent fever, or other symptoms of ulcerative colitis.Call your health care provider if you have ulcerative colitis and your symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.PreventionBecause the cause is unknown, prevention is also unknown.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may make symptoms worse.Due to the risk of colon cancer associated with ulcerative colitis, screening with colonoscopy is recommended.The American Cancer Society recommends having your first screening:8 years after you are diagnosed with severe disease, or when most of, or the entire, large intestine is involved12 - 15 years after diagnosis when only the left side of the large intestine is involvedHave follow-up examinations every 1 - 2 years.ReferencesGraham L. AGA reviews the use of corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and infliximab in IBD. Am Fam Physician. 2007;75:410-412.Moyer MS. Chronic ulcerative colitis in childhood. J Pediatr. 2006;148:325.Fry RD, Mahmoud N, Maron DJ, Ross HM, Rombeau J. Colon and rectum. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 50.Rutgeerts P, Vermeire S, Van Assche G. Biological therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases. Gastroenterology. 2009 Apr;136(4):1182-97. Epub 2009 Feb 26.
