Conventional/Prescription Medicines Used to Treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease
There are many different medications that can be utilized to relieve the symptoms of IBD. The following is a list of commonly used medications:
Anti-inflammatory drugs:
- Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®)
- Mesalamine (Asacol®, Rowasa®)
- Corticosteroids
Immune system suppressors:
- Azathioprine (Imuran®) and mercaptopurine (Purinethol®)
- Infliximab (Remicade®)
- Methotrexate (Rheumatrex®)
- Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune®)
Antibiotics:
- Metronidazole (Flagyl®)
- Ciprofloxacin (Cipro®)
Other medications:
- Anti-diarrheals
- Laxatives
- Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®).
- Iron supplements, to resolve the anemia associated with IBD.
- Vitamin B-12 injections. If your ileum is inflamed or has been surgically removed, you may not be able to absorb B-12 through your intestines. Vitamin B-12 shots in these cases might be required. You can also talk to your healthcare professional about the option of using sublingual vitamin B-12, which is dissolved under the tongue.
Note: NSAIDs should be avoided due to a worsening of IBD symptoms, and the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Severe cases of IBD may require surgery to remove the parts of the colon that are causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms. However, surgery should be undertaken as a last resort, after all other non-invasive treatments have been thoroughly exhausted.8
Additional Information about Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Overview
- Common symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
- Common causes of inflammatory bowel disease
- Help me choose a natural and alternative treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
- Dietary and lifestyle recommendations that may help in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
- Cited Sources and Additional Reading for inflammatory bowel disease
