Steroids Taken for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can affect your digestive system anywhere between your mouth and your anus. If the disease is moderate to severe, steroids (or corticosteroids) may be used to control the condition.

Drugs

• According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the corticosteroids that are most frequently prescribed for Crohn's disease are oral prednisone and budesonide (Entocort). In severe situations, such as a bowel obstruction, these medications may be given intravenously.

Effectiveness

• These drugs are helpful in reducing inflammation and suppressing your immune function. This helps relieve the stomach pain and abdominal cramping that accompanies Crohn's disease.

Side Effects

• According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects of corticosteroids may include increased eye pressure, mood swings, increased blood pressure, fluid retention, and weight gain.

Long-Term Use

• Long-term use of these drugs increases your risk of infection (due to suppression of your immune system), high blood sugar, cataracts, loss of bone calcium, easy bruising, and increased healing time.

Precaution

• You should never stop taking these drugs unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Corticosteroids should be reduced gradually to avoid withdrawal (cortisol deficiency). Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue, weakness, feeling lightheaded, and body aches.

Considerations

• Discuss your options with your doctor if you want to reduce your risk of side effects from corticosteroids. There may be a lower-dose medication that you can take or the dosage may be decreased.