Medications for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. The lining of the colon become inflamed, making it difficult to digest foods without cramping, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Some people with Crohn's disease develop ulcers and abscesses that need to be treated with antibiotics. Other medications used to treat Crohn's disease focus on allowing the digestive tract to rest.

Anti-Inflammatories

• Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce the inflammation that is present in your digestive tract when you have Crohn's disease. You may be prescribed a course of corticosteroids or a drug called mesalamine.

Antibiotics

• Cipro and Flagyl, two potent antibiotics, are commonly used to treat abscesses and fistulas that are associated with Crohn's disease. An abscess is a localized infection and a fistula is a tunnel-like connection between two organs or tissues that should not be there.

Immunosuppressants

• Crohn's disease is thought to be a condition in which your immune system attacks part of your own body. Drugs that suppress your immune system can help reduce inflammation that is caused by Crohn's disease. Medications in this class include Humira and Methotrexate.

Pain Relievers

• Acetaminophen may be used for pain relief if your Crohn's symptoms are mild. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger drug for more severe pain. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can irritate your stomach further and are typically not used to treat Crohn's-related discomfort.

Anti-Diarrhea Drugs

• Your doctor may suggest an anti-diarrhea medicine to give you some relief. Ask your doctor if over-the-counter remedies such as Imodium are appropriate for you to take.

Supplements

• Many Crohn's disease sufferers become malnourished due to the loss of nutrients through severe bouts of diarrhea. Vitamin supplements or alternate forms of nutrition may be medically necessary to get you back to being nutritionally sound.