Corticosteroids for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Why It Is Used
Corticosteroids are used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (Reference inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD Opens New Window).
Ulcerative colitis
- Corticosteroid pills are used to stop symptoms of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis when aminosalicylates, such as sulfasalazine or mesalamine, have not worked.
- Corticosteroid enemas, suppositories, creams, or foam can be used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis that is limited to the rectum or lower part of the colon.
- Severe extensive disease sometimes requires treatment with intravenous (IV) corticosteroids.
Crohn's disease
- Corticosteroid pills are used to stop symptoms of moderate to severe Crohn's disease. They are used when other medicines have not worked to stop a flare-up of Crohn's disease.
- More severe symptoms of Crohn's disease may need to be treated with corticosteroids given in a vein (intravenous, or IV). This is usually done in the hospital.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 8, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
