Entocort (generic name budesonide), also known as Entocort EC, is the sole prescription medication that is approved by the FDA to treat mild and moderate cases of Crohn's disease that affects the ileum and ascending colon, according to the product website.
Function
Crohn's disease is a disease that causes the intestines to be chronically inflamed, and chronic inflammation can cause damage to the bowel. This drug is a corticosteroid, which helps control inflammation and comes in extended release form and delayed release form, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Features
Although Entocort EC is a corticosteroid, it is nonsystemic, which means it does not work throughout the body; it works primarily in one area. The medicine affects the intestine, not the bloodstream, and so it causes fewer negative side effects.
Time Frame
According to the medication website, Entocort is designed to be taken daily for up to eight weeks, with repeated courses if needed. It can also be used for maintenance therapy for up to three months.
Benefits
This medication is recommended by the American Gastroenterological Association, which can be reassuring to patients (entocortec.com). The effects are also comparable to prednisolone, another drug commonly used, but Entocort has fewer side effects.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, common side effects include easy bruising, colds, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, heartburn and indigestion, rounded face and skin blemishes.
