Steroids are a type of medication for ulcerative colitis that could help reduce inflammation in the colon. They’re used short term and are available as pills, tablets, or injections.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and sores, known as ulcers, in the large intestine.
Treatments for UC will aim to reduce inflammation in your colon to relieve symptoms and maintain remission.
If you’re experiencing a UC flare-up, a healthcare professional may prescribe steroids, known as corticosteroids, to help achieve remission. However, it’s important to discuss the potential side effects of taking steroids.
Keep reading to learn how steroids can provide some relief from UC.
UC symptoms occur when an overactive immune system attacks the colon, causing it to become inflamed.
Steroids help reduce inflammation by inhibiting your natural immune response, according to Crohn’s and Colitis UK.
A doctor will usually prescribe steroids as a short-term solution to help treat active UC flare-ups.
How quickly do steroids work for UC?
The exact timeline for relief will depend on the steroid you are given and its dosage method.
You should typically notice some improvement in your condition within 3 to 5 days.
Do not stop taking steroids suddenly, even if you don’t see the results you expect. Speak with a healthcare professional if steroids aren’t providing relief. They can recommend an alternative treatment for you.
There are several types of steroids for UC, which can either be taken by mouth, injection, or rectally.
Oral corticosteroids
Here are some of the more commonly prescribed steroids for UC, according to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation:
- Prednisone (Deltasone): This pill is taken once daily, typically in the morning. Prednisone has been used for over 60 years and may also be prescribed at a high dose intravenously (through a vein).
- Budesonide (Entocort EC): This pill is quickly metabolized by the liver, which may reduce side effects.
- Budesonide MMX (Uceris): These are extended relief tablets for active and mild to moderate UC.
Rectal corticosteroids
Steroids delivered rectally (through your anus) have fewer risks of side effects because they directly target the affected area, such as your colon or rectum.
Rectal steroid medications like hydrocortisone and methylprednisolone can be delivered by:
- suppository
- enema
- foam
Everyone reacts differently to different types of steroids, so it’s important to maintain communication with your doctor during UC treatment.
Long before having you start steroids, your doctor will be able to plan out tapering regimens that will work best for you and escalate or de-escalate your treatment depending on your body’s needs.
Are steroids for UC covered under insurance or Medicare?
Most steroids are covered by insurance or Medicare, though they may only be available in generic form. Talk with a doctor or pharmacist to see what may be covered by your plan if you have one.
Like most medications, steroids can have side effects, including:
- blurred vision
- acne
- increased body or facial hair
- rounding of the face or weight gain
- rapid changes in mood
- dizziness
Steroids lower the immune response, which in turn stops the body from attacking its own digestive system. When taking steroids, remember that because your natural immune response is lowered, it’s easier for you to get sick.
When to talk with a doctor
Talk with a doctor if your UC symptoms are not improving or responding to treatment.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, get immediate medical attention. This may be a sign of a severe UC flare-up that could require medical treatment:
Steroids are rarely prescribed for long-term use, so other treatments for UC will likely be needed. In
Other options for managing UC may include:
- medications, such as biologics, aminosalicylates, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and immunomodulators
- dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, alcohol, processed foods, and dairy
- lifestyle changes, such as exercising and relieving stress
- natural remedies, such as ginseng, herbal teas, turmeric, and acupuncture
Learn more about what to do if your UC treatment isn’t working.
Why are steroids used for ulcerative colitis?
Steroids can be used to quickly relieve inflammation and symptoms during flare-ups.
What steroids are good for ulcerative colitis?
Several types of steroids can help relieve inflammation for ulcerative colitis. These can be taken orally, rectally, or by injection.
How long does it take for prednisone to help ulcerative colitis?
Corticosteroids for ulcerative colitis, like prednisone, usually work within 3 to 5 days. However, prednisone may not work for everyone.
What is the best medication for ulcerative colitis?
The best medication will depend on several factors, such as the severity of your condition and your overall health. Some medications may include corticosteroids, biologics, aminosalicylates, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and immunomodulators.
The aim of UC treatment is to help maintain remission and prevent symptoms flaring up. But unless you receive a total proctocolectomy, you can experience UC flare-ups from time to time.
The temporary use of oral or rectal steroids can help suppress the immune response that causes flare-ups.
Speak with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing a UC flare-up. They can develop a treatment plan to reduce symptoms, which may include steroids.