The 5 aminosalicylates are all derivatives of sulfasalazine. These drugs include Asacol, Dipentum, or Pentasa. Prednisone and Hydrocortisone Patients with severe disease and those who do not respond to the 5 aminosalicylates may be treated with corticosteriods. Prednisone and hydrocortisone are two corticosteroids used to reduce inflammation. These drugs are the most effective for active Crohn's disease, but they can cause serious side effects including greater susceptibility to infection.
Immunosuppressive agents work by blocking the immune reaction that contributes to inflammation.
Although these drugs have significant side effects, many times when used with corticosteriods, the dose of corticosteriods can be eventually lowered. It is also approved for the treatment of open, draining fistulas in the intestinal tract. This is the first drug approved by the FDA specifically for Crohn's disease. Researchers are always looking for new treatments for Crohn's Disease. Surgery Crohn's Disease is universally progressive over time.