Entocort

Entocort EC is a medication that is licensed for the treatment of Crohn's disease. As a type of corticosteroid, Entocort EC works by decreasing inflammation in the intestines. The medication, which is only available by prescription, comes in the form of a capsule that is generally taken once a day in the morning. Potential side effects of Entocort EC include headaches, respiratory infections, and nausea.

 

What Is Entocort?

Entocort® EC (budesonide EC) is a prescription medication used to treat Crohn's disease.
 
(Click Entocort Uses for more information on what Entocort EC is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Entocort?

Entocort EC is manufactured by Prometheus Laboratories, Inc.
 

How Does Entocort Work?

Entocort EC is a corticosteroid. It works by decreasing inflammation (one of the problems in Crohn's disease). Steroids are often needed to help people control flares of Crohn's disease (when the symptoms temporarily get worse). However, unlike most other steroids, Entocort EC is less likely to cause the typical side effects of steroids (which can be quite bothersome and serious).
 
Entocort EC is specifically designed to be released in the intestine (not in the stomach). When Entocort EC is absorbed into the body, the liver changes most of it into other compounds that do not have steroid side effects. Entocort EC mostly works when it comes in contact with the intestines; therefore, it does not need to circulate throughout the body to work.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;