Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease associated with such symptoms as rectal bleeding, rectal pain, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Sometimes, unintentional weight loss is another symptom of ulcerative colitis. Risk factors for developing ulcerative colitis include having a family history, being white and using such medications as isotretinoin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Drugs for ulcerative colitis exist to help manage the condition.
Balsalazide
Balsalazide, commonly sold as Colazal, is an oral medication specifically used to treat active ulcerative colitis. Drugs.com says that this medication reduces inflammation within the colon. Some of balsalazide's less serious side effects include nausea, vomiting, a headache, diarrhea and joint pain. This drug's serious side effects include worsened stomach pain, stomach cramps, pale skin and bloody diarrhea. Other serious side effects include weakness, easy bruising and bleeding from the rectum. Notify a doctor immediately if balsalazide leads to these effects.
Azathioprine
Azathioprine, commonly sold as Azasan and Imuran, is an oral immunosuppresant medication that can help reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Specifically, this medication weakens the immune system. MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, indicates that some of azathioprine's less serious side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and muscle aches. Its serious side effects include loss of appetite, rash, blurry vision, yellowing of the skin or eyes and mouth sores. Other serious side effects include upper right abdominal pain, a rash and a lack of energy. Notify a physician if azathioprine leads to these effects.
Naproxen
Naproxen, commonly sold as Aleve, Anaprox or Midol, is an oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that lessens pain and inflammation in the body. Specifically, this medication can also treat tendinitis, gout, menstrual cramps and ankylosing spondylitis. Drugs.com says that naproxen's less serious side effects include blurry vision, ringing in the ears, a headache, nervousness and constipation. Other less serious side effects include gas, bloating and heartburn. Blurry vision, ringing in the ears and stomach problems are naproxen's other serious side effects. Phone a doctor if these effects develop.
