About Colitis Medications
Colitis is a condition that involves colon (a name for the lower or larger intestine) inflammation. The main symptom of colitis is experiencing loose stools. People who suffer from this disorder can either have acute or chronic colitis. Acute colitis lasts only a few days, while chronic colitis can keep going for weeks and occasionally even months without stopping. There are a lot of different medication options for treating this disorder.
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Function
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Colitis medicines are designed to both stop and regulate inflammation of the colon. They are also supposed to assist in relieving symptoms, promoting the healing of tissues that are damaged, placing the disorder back into remission and making sure it doesn't reappear again, and preventing surgery from being necessary.
Aminosalicylates
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Aminosalicylates (like mesalamine and sulfasalazine) are a common medicine option for milder forms of colitis. They soothe inflammation within the intestines and help the colitis go back into remission. Aminosalicylates are also useful for making sure the condition doesn't become active again.
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Corticosteroids
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Corticosteroids are often considered a highly effective additional medication to complement aminosalicylates. Corticosteroids are usually prescribed if the colitis symptoms continue even after the aminosalicylates are taken. Corticosteroids also help to relieve intestinal inflammation.
Serious Cases
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For more severe cases of colitis, people might need to be prescribed medications that are designed for immune system suppression. Intravenous corticosteroids (IV), infliximab, cyclosporine, azathioprine, and 6-mercaptopurine are all stronger medication options for people suffering from more extreme forms of colitis.
Considerations
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Pregnant women with colitis should discuss with their health care professionals exactly which medication options are safe for them to take. In general, aminosalicylates and corticosteroids are safe for pregnant women, but it is a good idea for pregnant women to ask their doctor whether immune system suppression medications are safe for themselves and the baby.
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