IBD Treatments

Crohn's and Colitis UK

Treatment for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis depends on how severe the symptoms are, and how much of the gut is affected. 

There are many different treatments available to help you live well with your Crohn’s or Colitis. Together with your IBD team, you can decide what treatment is right for you.

At first, medicines aim to reduce inflammation in the gut to bring about remission. Remission is when you feel better and your Crohn's or Colitis symptoms aren't bothering you. Once the condition is under control, your doctor will usually continue to prescribe drugs to maintain remission and prevent relapse (feeling unwell again) – this is called maintenance treatment.

Medicines to treat Crohn's and Colitis

Immunosuppressant medicinesThese medicines control the immune system to stop it attacking the gut:

  • Adalimumab
  • Azathioprine and Mercaptopurine
  • Biologic Drugs
  • Etrasimod
  • Filgotinib
  • Golimumab
  • Infliximab
  • Methotrexate
  • Mirikizumab
  • Ozanimod
  • Risankizumab
  • Steroids
  • Tofacitinib
  • Upadacitinib
  • Ustekinumab
  • Vedolizumab

Other medicines

  • Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs)
  • Other treatments for Crohn's and Colitis

Surgery

Sometimes people with Crohn's or Colitis require surgery. A range of surgeries can be recommended and these guides looks at what they are and when they are necessary, weighing up the pros and cons in the process:

Other forms of treatment

Browse all our information for details about other forms of treatment for Crohn’s and Colitis, including dietary therapy, counselling and controlling fatigue.

Useful resources

Do you need someone to talk to who has a lived experience of Crohn's or Colitis and can...
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, develop new skills and make a difference...
Our 50 Local Networks operate across the UK bringing local people affected by Crohn’s and...
We offer people affected by Crohn's or Colitis the chance to join a virtual social event...
IBD Nurse Specialists provide expert support and advice for people living with Crohn’s...
Thanks to the support of our members we can be there for everyone affected by Crohn’s and...
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