New to treatment- first day!

[xoxava]

Hello to all. I just joined and was recently diagnosed with crohns disease. My doctor started me on 400mg Asacol, 20mg Prednisone, and 40mg Omeprazole. I was wondering if anyone has been on these meds and what advice you can give me? I am excited to start treatment but also scared of the side effects!

 

[CDDad]

Hi,
I would say the only one with serious side effects is the prednisone. Most docs hesitate to use that as a first line drug, so maybe you were in bad shape? But the 20mg dose is low so maybe he/she just wants to kick start the healing. The Asacol is for the terminal ileum and the colon. It is a time release Mesalamine, kind of asprin like. Have not heard about too many having side effects from that.

The Omeprazole is usually prescribed for Crohns in the stomach - or ulcers or GERD. There have been stories in the news lately about these types of drugs causing bone fractures.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/05/25/health/main6519148.shtml

I've been on similar Protonix for many years and have not had a bone problem (yet?).
But, good luck to you. Hope you are feeling better.

 

[xoxava]

Thank you for the information! I am excited and nervous to start my treatment. I appreciate you replying!

 

[Astra]

Hiya
Some Pred tips!

Take your Pred very early in the morning about 6am, cos one side effect is insomnia!
Make sure you take calcium supplements with Pred, cos on high doses it robs you of your calcium
Pred will give you tons of energy, but don't think you can move mountains, Pred masks symptoms, and you will pay!
20mg is low, so don't be surprised if doc ups the dose, oh, and don't be too concerned about getting a 'chipmunk' face, or moonface, this will go when you come off them
Enjoy the benefit, it'll be worth it!
good luck
Joan xxx

 

[Procyon]

20 mg of pred is probably low enough that you won't have to worry about the side effects getting too bad. Don't be too nervous about starting your treatment. Taking new drugs can be stressful, but hopefully you'll be feeling better soon.

 

[xoxava]

Thanks to everyone. I really appreciate it