The use of Mezsalazine for Crohns

[Fairyclarey]

I am completely new to all this, and so don't know a great deal yet, but I was diagnosed with Crohns about a month ago, after having symptoms for 2 years. Today I have started on my firt medication for it. I have been given the anti inflamatory drug, Mesalazine (more specifically the brand Octasa). I was told that this drug is rarely used for Crohns - more commonly for UC. My Dr however thought it may be a good place to start for me, as my symptoms are on the mildest side of the spectrum. I'm not sure exactly why it works for UC but not usually for crohns. Perhaps it's to do with Crohns effecting deeper tissue, and this drug is quite a surface thing? Anyway, I was just really wondering if anyone else has taken this for the treatment of Crohns, and how it has worked for you.

Thank you.
xox

 

[Clash]

You may want to browse through the link I've posted below it is the Mesalazine treatment section:

http://www.crohnsforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=125

Your understanding of why it is more effective for UC is right. You would have to think of it as UC ulcers affect the top layer and the med is like a lotion for the top layer, CD can be the full depth of the bowel wall, so more layers. The approach you are using is the bottom up approach you keep moving up the pyramid of meds if/when a med fails until you find one that will keep things under control for you. Hope all goes well and you find relief soon!

 

[Fairyclarey]

Thanks a lot. I will have a read through
xox

 

[rygon]

A doctor also replied on this very question a few months ago, which can be found here: http://www.crohnsforum.com/showthread.php?t=50253

 

[David]

I'm personally not a fan of mesalamine as the primary treatment option for people with Crohn's. As part of a treatment plan? Sure. As the primary treatment option? No. The proof of efficacy just isn't there.