Ulcerative Colitis Medications

There are several categories of drugs that can be administered to treat ulcerative colitis, depending on the severity of the condition, overall health, and several other factors. The drugs can be administered either in different ways; orally, or as a suppository, or even as an enema, it all depends on the area of the colon that is affected. In mild cases, these drugs are capable of treating the disease as long as the patient avoids triggers. In severe cases, they can be used to reduce symptoms and later adjusted for treatment purposes. In case they don't work, then other forms of treatment like surgery can be incorporated. The top three ulcerative colitis medications are Mesalamine, Prednisone, and Azathioprine.

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  1. Do Mesalamine, Prednisone, and Azathioprine need to be prescribed by the doctor?
    Reply

    Yes, they do. These drugs treat different stages of ulcerative colitis depending on several factors, so one needs the doctor's approval before taking any of these drugs. At times the medication may take time before taking effect. The patients have to work with their doctor to help find what works for them.

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  2. Which of the three is most effective in severe cases?
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    Prednisone that is categorized under Corticosteroids offers the best medication for severe ulcerative colitis. These drugs work by suppressing the whole immune system. However, this drug has severe side effects hence should be used for a long time. Once a period of temporary is achieved, the drug can gradually be reduced and eventually stopped. If a patient risks relapse when they stop taking Prednisone, the doctor can prescribe other medications to control the disease.

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  3. What are the side effects of these drugs?
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    As with any other drug, these drugs have common side effects. Prednisone side effects include insomnia, weight gain, slow wound healing, nausea, headaches and so on. Side effects of Mesalamine include nausea, flu-like symptoms, headache, rash, and abnormal liver function. Common side effects of Azathioprine are diarrhea, loss of appetite, hair loss, and mild upset stomach.

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  4. What is the major difference between Mesalamine, Prednisone, and Azathioprine?
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    Mesalamine is used to decrease inflammation thus can treat mild to moderate stages of ulcerative colitis, Prednisone is used to suppress the entire immune system hence can be used to treat moderate to severe stages, and Azathioprine is used to limit inflammation at its source; it can be used in the cases where Mesalamine and Prednisone are not effective enough.

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  5. What should one avoid when using these drugs?
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    Generally, avoid being close to people with infections or are sick. Avoid receiving the live vaccine when using Prednisone, and Azathioprine. Live vaccines contain viruses and these may increase risks of harmful effects from the vaccine. In case of exposure to measles or chicken pox contact the doctor. For Mesalamine, contact a doctor before using antacids.

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  6. What should one do if they miss a dose?
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    Take the missed dose immediately you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose, in which case the missed dose can be avoided altogether. These drugs have severe side effects; therefore avoid taking extra medication to compensate for the missed dose.

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  7. How long do these medications take to work?
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    Depending on the current condition when using Mesalamine and Prednisone change should be noticed in a few weeks, but Azathioprine can take up to several months before it begins to work.

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  8. What are the overall user ratings from patients for these medications?
    Reply

    This isn't intended to endorse these drugs; they may be helpful in decision-making but professional guidance is still mandatory. Out of 5 stars, Prednisone receives 3.5 for effectiveness, 3.5 for ease of use, and 3 for satisfaction. Mesalamine gets 3, 4, and 3.5 for effectiveness, ease of use, and satisfaction respectively. Azathioprine gets 3.5, 4, and 3 for effectiveness, ease of use, and satisfaction respectively.

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