Remission meds effectiveness

[Mazen]

http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/ac...(158+KB)&doi=10.1111/j.1365-2036.2007.03536.x

Results
Azathioprine, infliximab and adalimumab are effective at maintaining
remission in Crohn’s disease. Natalizumab is also effective, but there are
concerns about its potential association with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.
Long-term enteral nutritional supplementation,
enteric-coated omega-3 fatty acids and intramuscular methotrexate may
also be effective but the evidence for these is based on relatively small
studies. The available evidence does not support the use of oral 5-
aminosalicylates agents, corticosteroids, anti-mycobacterial agents, probiotics
or ciclosporin as maintenance therapy in Crohn’s disease.

So I wonder why most of us are put on long term 5 ASA treatment (I have been taking it for almost 8 years now!!!)

 

[Kev]

5ASA and remission, NO. I don't see it happening. But, inflamation is part and parcel of IBD. A patient has inflamation, then just about any doc is going to prescribe anti inflamatory meds... Sort of like fighting fire with thimblefulls of water.. won't replace the fire department, but it may help.

 

[Sojourn]

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy? Sounds pretty dangerous. From a little searching, though, it is very rare.

Two MS patients taking part in a clinical trial into Tysabri (natalizumab) are believed to have developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), one of whom died.
http://www.e-medicum.com/newsletters/artritisReumatoidea/verNoticia.php?noticia=42774

 

[butt-eze]

Most medication we take to induce remission or maintain remission have negative side effects. Most of us are taking a gamble to some degree.