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  • Educational Resources for You & Your Family

There is currently no cure for IBD, but recent medical trials have resulted in a variety of therapy options. Treatment for IBD is very individualized and is based on the severity and location of inflammation, susceptibility to side effects, age and personal/family preferences. Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease share many of the same treatments.

Drug treatment is the most common and effective method for treating IBD in the short and long-term. Your doctor may prescribe a number of different medications alone or in combination based on your needs. There are six main categories of drugs used in IBD:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce inflammation in the intestinal tract and throughout the body. Two main groups of anti-inflammatory drugs are used: glucocorticoids (steroids) and mesalamine-containing drugs. Glucocorticoids are often used to treat IBD flares; where as mesalamine-containing drugs are used to manage long-term inflammation.
  • Immunosuppressant medications are used to reduce inflammation by decreasing the body’s immune response.
  • Biologic drugs are used to decrease inflammation by blocking or activating specific molecules or receptors in the body. Biologic drugs work very specifically to decrease inflammation in the intestines.
  • Antibiotics are useful in Crohn’s disease to help clear infections from a fistula or abscess.
  • Pain relief medications are used to reduce the abdominal pain associated with IBD.

Learn more about medical treatment of IBD

Where to find us

9th Floor Victoria Building
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3H 2Y5


Fax: 902-473-4406