What are the treatments for ulcerative colitis?
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Treatment when symptoms flare-up?
The common treatment to control symptoms when UC first develops is either a steroid or a 5-aminosalicylate medicine. Both of these types of medicine reduce inflammation, but work in different ways. They can be taken as tablets. They can also be taken as enemas if only the rectum and last part of the colon is affected. Medication is taken for a few weeks until symptoms clear. A course of medication is then usually taken each time symptoms flare-up.
- A course of steroids (corticosteroids) such as prednisolone will usually ease symptoms. The initial high dose is gradually reduced and then stopped once symptoms ease. A course of steroids for a few weeks is normally safe. Steroids are not usually continued once a flare-up has settled. This is because side-effects may develop if steroids are taken for a long time (several months or more). The aim is to treat any flare-ups, but to keep the total amount of steroid treatment over the years as low as possible.
- 5-sminosalicylate medicines include sulfasalazine, mesalazine, ofsalazine, and balsalazide. They are an alternative to steroids, and often work well for mild or moderate flare-ups. They do not work in all cases. Some people need to switch to steroid medication if a 5-aminosalicylate medicine is not working, or if the flare-up is severe.
- Other medicines that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants) may be used if symptoms persist despite the above treatments. For example, azathioprine or ciclosporin are sometimes needed to control a flare-up of UC.
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