Crohn's Disease Medications

In people with Crohn's disease, certain drugs can help control inflammation associated with the condition and relieve symptoms of the disease; some drugs can prevent flare-ups and may delay the need for surgery. Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) is one of the most commonly used medications for Crohn's disease. Healthcare providers also prescribe drugs such as corticosteroids (such as prednisone), immunosuppressive drugs (such as azathioprine), and TNF inhibitors (such as adalimumab).

An Overview of Crohn's Disease Medications

There is no cure for Crohn's disease; however, there are several medications that can help those living with Crohn's disease. Healthcare providers prescribe these medications to:
 
Your healthcare provider will consider a number of factors before deciding on which medicine or medicines make the most sense for your particular situation. Examples of such factors include:
 
  • The severity of your symptoms
  • Complications you may be experiencing (see Complications of Crohn's Disease)
  • Other Crohn's medications you have tried in the past.
     
Not everyone responds the same way to medicines, so your healthcare provider may have to try several medicines before finding one that controls the disease with the least side effects.
 
A few commonly prescribed Crohn's disease medications include:
 
  • Sulfasalazine
  • Other aminosalicylates
  • Corticosteroids
  • Immunosuppressive drugs
  • Biologic response modifiers
  • Antibiotics
  • Antidiarrheal medicines.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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