Steroids for the Short-Term Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis - Healthline

News Bureau April 19, 2022, 2:56 pm News

Steroids can get a bad rap, but they're incredibly valuable tools used to treat autoimmune diseases. Let's discuss how they can help those with ulcerative colitis.

Steroids are a type of medication for ulcerative colitis that could help reduce inflammation in the colon. They’re used short term and are available as pills, tablets, or injections.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and sores, known as ulcers, in the large intestine.

Treatments for UC will aim to reduce inflammation in your colon to relieve symptoms and maintain remission.

If you’re experiencing a UC flare-up, a healthcare professional may prescribe steroids, known as corticosteroids, to help achieve remission. However, it’s important to discuss the potential side effects of taking steroids.

Keep reading to learn how steroids can provide some relief from UC.

UC symptoms occur when an overactive immune system attacks the colon, causing it to become inflamed.

There are several types of steroids for UC, which can either be taken by mouth, injection, or rectally.

Oral corticosteroids

  • Prednisone (Deltasone): This pill is taken once daily, typically in the morning. Prednisone has been used for over 60 years and may also be prescribed at a high dose intravenously (through a vein).
  • Budesonide (Entocort EC): This pill is quickly metabolized by the liver, which may reduce side effects.
  • Budesonide MMX (Uceris): These are extended relief tablets for active and mild to moderate UC.

Rectal corticosteroids

Steroids delivered rectally (through your anus) have fewer risks of side effects because they directly target the affected area, such as your colon or rectum.

Everyone reacts differently to different types of steroids, so it’s important to maintain communication with your doctor during UC treatment.

Long before having you start steroids, your doctor will be able to plan out tapering regimens that will work best for you and escalate or de-escalate your treatment depending on your body’s needs.

Like most medications, steroids can have side effects, including:

Steroids lower the immune response, which in turn stops the body from attacking its own digestive system. When taking steroids, remember that because your natural immune response is lowered, it’s easier for you to get sick.

Steroids are rarely prescribed for long-term use, so other treatments for UC will likely be needed. In some cases, UC is steroid-resistant.

Other options for managing UC may include:

Why are steroids used for ulcerative colitis?

Steroids can be used to quickly relieve inflammation and symptoms during flare-ups.

What steroids are good for ulcerative colitis?

Several types of steroids can help relieve inflammation for ulcerative colitis. These can be taken orally, rectally, or by injection.

How long does it take for prednisone to help ulcerative colitis?

Corticosteroids for ulcerative colitis, like prednisone, usually work within 3 to 5 days. However, prednisone may not work for everyone.

What is the best medication for ulcerative colitis?

The best medication will depend on several factors, such as the severity of your condition and your overall health. Some medications may include corticosteroids, biologics, aminosalicylates, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and immunomodulators.

The aim of UC treatment is to help maintain remission and prevent symptoms flaring up. But unless you receive a total proctocolectomy, you can experience UC flare-ups from time to time.

The temporary use of oral or rectal steroids can help suppress the immune response that causes flare-ups.

Speak with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing a UC flare-up. They can develop a treatment plan to reduce symptoms, which may include steroids.