Crohn's Disease
Patient Education

Patient Guide

Medications and Treatments for Crohn's Disease

For severe symptoms of Crohn's Disease, the following drugs may be administered.

Drug Category	How it works
Intravenous Corticosteroids	Suppresses immune system to decrease flare-ups of Crohn's Disease
Biologics	Target specific proteins that cause inflammation or block cells that lead to inflammation

Supplements and herbs have had mixed results which is an important patient education point, and can be found in treating the symptoms of Crohn's Disease.

Drug Category	How it works
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Decrease Inflammation Enhance effect of medications taken
Boswellia (frankincense)	Decreases inflammation Similar efficacy to mesalazine (drug used for Crohn's disease)
Slippery Elm	Acts as an emollient to sooth mucous membranes and inflamed tissue Helps heal irritated tissue
Bromelain (enzyme in pineapples)	Decreases the secretions of enzymes that cause inflammation (cytokines)
Marshmallow	Soothes mucous membranes as an emollient
Turmeric	Anti-inflammatory agent that decreases inflammation

Stress causes harmful effects on the body by:

Increasing stomach acids
Increasing acid reflux
Decreasing proper digestive actions

By utilizing stress relievers, one helps to decrease the symptoms of diarrhea including abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea associated with Crohn's Disease and has been seen to be effective.

Stress relievers include: