Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. It leads to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. While there is no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing inflammation.
At Pharmaconic, we provide:
- Personalized medication management
- Access to anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs
- Ongoing support to help patients follow treatment plans
The goal is to improve quality of life and reduce flare-ups.
Some Common Symptoms Include:
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Persistent diarrhea (often with blood or pus)
- Urgency to have a bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Reduced appetite
- Anemia (due to blood loss)
- Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
How Can Ulcerative Colitis Be Treated?
1. Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs)
Used to reduce inflammation in the colon lining.
- Mesalamine (Asacol HD, Lialda, Pentasa)
- Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
- Olsalazine (Dipentum)
- Balsalazide (Colazal)
2. Corticosteroids
Used short-term during moderate to severe flare-ups.
- Prednisone
- Budesonide (Uceris, Entocort EC)
- Hydrocortisone (oral, rectal foam, enema, or suppository)
3. Immunomodulators
Suppress immune response to reduce inflammation.
- Azathioprine (Imuran)
- 6-Mercaptopurine (Purinethol, 6-MP)
- Methotrexate (used less frequently, off-label)
4. Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors
Oral immunosuppressants that block immune signaling pathways.
- Tofacitinib (Xeljanz)
- Upadacitinib (Rinvoq)
5. Antibiotics (Used when infections or abscesses are present)
- Ciprofloxacin
- Metronidazole
