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Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease is a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract. Unlike ulcerative colitis, which is confined to the colon, Crohn’s can strike anywhere from the mouth to the rectum, though the small intestine and colon are the most common sites. It follows a pattern of flares and remission that can last years.

Azulfidine

Sulfasalazine

500mg

Sulfasalazine 500mg tablets, used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. A sulfonamide DMARD.

From$0.85/ tabletView

Pentasa

Mesalazine

400mg

Mesalazine as a 400mg prolonged-release tablet, used in the management of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The release is spread along the gut.

From$1.32/ tabletView

Methotrexate Tablets

Methotrexate

2.5mg

Methotrexate 2.5mg tablets, used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn's disease. A folic acid antagonist blocking dihydrofolate reductase.

From$0.73/ tabletView

Key points

  • Inflammation can appear anywhere along the digestive tract, though the lower small bowel and large bowel are most often involved.
  • A flare typically brings belly cramps, loose and frequent stools, and ongoing tiredness, sometimes with noticeable weight loss.
  • Aminosalicylates are among the most used medicines for reducing gut inflammation, with methotrexate reserved for cases that do not respond.

What flares feel like

During active disease, the hallmark symptoms are cramping abdominal pain, frequent loose stools (sometimes with blood), and persistent fatigue. Weight loss is common during prolonged flares because the inflamed gut absorbs nutrients poorly. Some people develop mouth ulcers, joint pain, or skin changes alongside gut symptoms, reflecting Crohn’s broader autoimmune character.

Medicines used in management

There is no cure, but treatment can achieve and maintain remission. Aminosalicylates such as mesalazine and sulfasalazine reduce mucosal inflammation and are among the most-used agents. For disease that does not respond to aminosalicylates, methotrexate is an established option that dampens the immune response driving gut damage. Nutritional support and a low-residue diet during flares can also ease symptoms. Full digestive health management often combines medication with dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop a high fever, severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly, or signs of obstruction such as persistent vomiting with no bowel movements.

Further reading

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