Is Ulcerative Colitis Curable?

Colitis Crystal L.

Use of Medications

Different medications have been prescribed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Some of these medications help to reduce inflammatory reactions in the body while others might help to suppress the immune system. The major group of drugs prescribed for this condition are explained below:

Antiinflammatory drugs: Anti Inflammatory drugs are used to reduce inflammatory reactions in the large intestine. The most common type of antiinflammatory drug prescribed is the 5-aminosalicylates. Examples of 5-aminosalicylates include olsalazine, sulfasalazine, and balsalazide. Corticosteroids like prednisone are also prescribed to help reduce inflammatory processes.
Immunosuppressors: Ulcerative colitis is known to be caused by an overactive immune system that attacks the large intestine. Immunosuppressors help to decrease the strength of the immune system, making the colon less subjected to attack. They also help to reduce the process of inflammation. Examples of immunosuppressants usually prescribed include mercaptopurine, methotrexate, and cyclosporine.
Antidiarrheal Medications: Diarrhea is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. Frequent diarrhea leads to loss of body fluids and electrolytes. Antidiarrheal medication reduces the incidence of diarrhea. It is however important that you consult your doctor before taking any antidiarrheal medication.
Analgesics: Analgesics are pain relievers. They are useful in alleviating abdominal pains in ulcerative colitis. Analgesics like ibuprofen can however be harmful in some cases. You should only use analgesics prescribed by your doctor.
Use of Biologics: Biologics are a group of drugs produced from biological sources. Biologics are mostly prescribed when patients are not responding to other treatments. Examples of biologics used to treat ulcerative colitis include infliximab and vedolizumab.

It is important that you do not self-medicate. Using some of these drugs without a prescription from the doctor can be harmful. If you have side effects while using a drug, discuss it with your doctor so that you can be placed on another medication.

Crystal L. May 19, 2023

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