There is no cure for Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. But there are many effective drugs that can treat the symptoms.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, usually prednisone, can provide rapid relief of pain and diarrhea. In general, these very effective medications aren't appropriate for long-term use because of side effects, such as bloating, excessive facial hair, sleep disruption and, even an increased risk of diabetes and osteoporosis.
Budesonide
Budesonide (Entocort) is a corticosteroid that tends to have fewer side effects. "The liver metabolizes it very, very quickly," says Dr. DeCross. "It's useful in mild-to-moderate cases and can be used for weeks to months without getting into prednisone side effects."
Azathioprine and mercaptopurine
Azathioprine (Imuran) and mercaptopurine (Purinethol) dampen the overactive immune response seen in Crohn's.
Sulfasalazine
Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), one of a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates, can ease inflammation in mild-to-moderate disease and can help keep people in remission, Dr. DeCross says.
Mesalamine
Mesalamine (Asacol, Pentasa) is also an aminosalicylate and may be helpful for those allergic to sulfa drugs.
Metronidazole
Antibiotics are often used in addition to other medications, particularly for mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease to help establish a remission or in treatment of fistulas. But they aren't long-term solutions, says Dr. DeCross. Metronidazole (Flagyl) is what's known as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is effective against many different types of bacteria that may erupt as the result of a stricture or fistulas or after surgery. Metronidazole may cause side effects, such as numbness and tingling in your hands and feet and muscle pain or weakness.
Infliximab
Infliximab (Remicade) is a biologic, a therapy that uses or mimics naturally occurring molecules to treat disease.
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