UCERIS (BUDESONIDE)

Uceris Helps Decrease Inflammation

If you are dealing with an inflammatory bowel condition, such as ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease, your doctor may prescribe Uceris. This oral steroid medication is specifically designed to decrease inflammation throughout your colon. Budesonide is the active ingredient in Uceris which is usually taken once a day for up to two months at a time if this condition remains active longer.

How Uceris Works Once it Reaches Your Colon

Uceris travels through your digestive system intact until it reaches your colon where it dissolves and forms a type of gel. This gel slowly releases Budesonide through your entire length of colon where it prevents the release of inflammatory chemicals, such as prostaglandins, by inhibiting certain enzymes that are over-active in those with ulcerative colitis.

Uceris is not a cure for UC or Crohn’s disease, but it will help reduce the painful inflammation in your colon and gastrointestinal tract to provide relief from abdominal cramps, diarrhea, or frequent loose stools.

More About UC and Crohn’s Disease

Doctors are still unsure on exactly what causes ulcerative colitis, except that it involves your immune system acting up as either a result of/or the cause of UC. Normally, your immune system protects you from harm by recognizing and defending against bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. However, it appears that for some individuals, their immune system starts reacting to the bacteria in the digestive system and it does not know when to shut off so there is constant inflammation in the colon.

Crohn’s disease may affect any part of your gastrointestinal tract, whereas ulcerative colitis is confined to your colon. It is believed that your immune system is also over-exerting itself to cause inflammation as a misguided immune response that attacks the cells in your digestive tract when it is trying to fend off invading microorganisms. If a family member has Crohn’s disease, the odds increase that you may also be likely to have Crohn’s disease.

Before You Take Uceris

You should discuss other medical conditions or allergies you may have so your doctor can determine if Uceris is the best medication for you. Provide your doctor with information regarding current Rx drugs you are taking and include OTC medicine, herbal preparations, and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Advise your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast-feeding while taking Uceris as it may be harmful to your unborn or nursing baby.

Uceris Precautions

Certain meds may cause an adverse effect when taken with Uceris or could alter its efficacy. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Uceris as it can increase the level of Budesonide in your blood.

Possible Side Effects of Uceris

• Heartburn or indigestion
• Burping
• Stomach upset or painful
• Bloating
• Fatigue