Ulcerative colitis medications do not actually cure ulcerative colitis. Nonetheless, they can be very helpful in controlling the discomfort of ulcerative colitis sympoms. One of the other primary reasons for using ulcerative colitis medications is to reach a stage of 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. But sulfapyridine has a variety of possible effects like headaches, nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea.

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. They can be taken in a number of different ways, depending on the location of the colitis: by enema, suppositiories, or orally. Very often, this type of medication will be your doctor’s first choice for treating ulcerative colitis. They’re also used frequently when relapses occur.

Corticosteroids - There are several medication combined in this treatment: hydrocortisone prednisone and methylprednisone. They’re particularly effective in reducing inflammation. Patients usually respond well to corticosteroids when they have ulcerative colitis that’s described as moderate to severe. Corticosteroids can be administered intravenously, orally, in suppository form, or through an enema.. Your healthcare provider will choose the appropriate delivery method based on the location of the inflammation in your colon. 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. But they do have several disadvantages. It can take as long as six months for the patient to get the full benefit, and there can also be complications and side effects. Pancreatitis, hepatitis, low white blood cell count and an increased risk of infection are possible.

Cyclosporine A - This treatment is most appropriate for patients whose ulcerative colitis is active and severe, and when intravenous drugs are ineffective. It is often used in combination 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.

Once again, medical researchers have not been able to find a permanent cure for ulcerative colitis. Nonetheless, ulcerative colitis medications are useful due to the fact they reduce inflammation, delay the need for surgery, and help prevent relapses.

Your doctor will evaluate a number of factors in deciding on the appropriate ulcerative colitis medication for you. Among these factors are

* symptom severity
* any possible complications
* any side effects you may have to face
* the success - or lack thereof - of previous medications and therapies

Ulcerative colitis affects every individual differently, even though all cases certainly have similarities.. 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 colitis medications and ulcerative colitis to learn more about the human colon. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and TV reporter with a special interest in health and fitness issues.