Treatment Options for IBD

Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, is an intestinal disease whose treatment options vary according to the gravity of the disease. IBD generally refers to two main diseases, ulcerative colitis, or simply UC, and Crohn’s disease. Both of these affect either the colon or the small intestine. Necessary cautionary steps and treatment types taken depend on symptoms experienced.

Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin, is a medication that is used to treat acne.  Accutane has many reported side effects.   It has been linked to bowel problems, including IBD, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.  In June 2009, the manufacturer of Accutane announced that it notified the FDA of its intent to discontinue the manufacture and distribution of Accutane

The main goal in treating any form of inflammatory bowel disease is to reduce intestinal swelling long enough to allow the tissue to heal. This will greatly reduce abdominal and diarrheal symptoms. The approach to the intensity of the treatment is a progressive one; the most benign treatment options are used first. If those fail, stronger treatment options are sought out.

Initially, weaker drugs referred to as “step I” drugs are used, including antibiotics. If these don’t provide relief, “step II” drugs are used that provide faster relief and deal with inflammation more quickly. If the previous methods prove to be ineffectual still, immune modifying agents, “step III” drugs, are used. Step III drugs that have been approved for Crohn’s Disease by the FDA are: infliximab, prednisone, and budesonide. In worst case scenarios, if all treatment options have been exhausted, treatment may resort to experimental options.

Surgery can be an option primarily for those who suffer from ulcerative colitis where medical treatment is unsuccessful. Surgical removal of the colon, known as a colectomy, effectively cures UC. Unfortunately there is no surgical option that cures Crohn’s disease. However, the majority of those afflicted with Crohn’s will need to eventually have a surgery known as segmental resection, where the affected area of the intestine is removed

When self treating, a healthy diet is always recommended, for any case. Specific eating instructions may be given by the doctor for different disease symptoms. For ulcerative colitis, a healthy diet may reduce the frequency of the bowel movements. For Crohn’s disease, a healthy diet helps substantially as it can influence inflammatory symptoms, often reducing them. Stress and being upset can also lead to intestinal inflammation episodes.

Do you believe you or a loved one has been injured by Accutane®? Goldberg & Osborne can help.

The law firm of Goldberg & Osborne is dedicated to helping injured people nationwide and is currently accepting cases for Accutane® victims. For a FREE case evaluation, please call us toll-free at (800) 935-2770 or submit a short and simple online case form here.