Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are two forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that impact millions of people worldwide.

Both conditions are chronic and marked by sustained inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. While there is no known cure for IBD, a variety of medications are available to help manage symptoms. However, some of these drugs can actually heighten the likelihood of getting sick if you have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Here are some of the most common culprits.

Steroids

Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are frequently utilized to reduce inflammation in people with IBD. However, preparations like prednisone, methylprednisolone, and hydrocortisone can cause additional harm if not used appropriately.

Steroid treatment requires careful monitoring, as long-term use can lead to the development of numerous side effects like adrenal gland suppression, hypertension, osteoporosis, and mood changes.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin and ibuprofen, might aggravate inflammatory bowel disease symptoms.

These drugs target prostaglandins, chemical messengers responsible for inflammation and pain, in a non-specific manner. Because prostaglandins are responsible for maintaining the integrity and overall health of the digestive tract, NSAIDs can accelerate ulcer formation and worsen inflammation.

Avoiding these medications entirely and selecting other forms of pain relief may be a good strategy.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are frequently utilized to treat infections in people with inflammatory bowel disease. For example, metronidazole and ciprofloxacin are commonly used to treat infections of the gut.

However, antibiotics can also disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, causing further problems. In addition, overuse of antibiotics has been linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. If you have IBD, make sure your healthcare provider thoroughly weighs the pros and cons of antibiotics.

Acid-Suppressive Medications

Acid-suppressive medications, like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, are used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux or peptic ulcer disease.

However, these medications can aggravate symptoms in people with inflammatory bowel disease. PPIs, for example, can lead to an increase in harmful bacteria in the gut by reducing the amount of stomach acid, which normally kills much of the bacteria that parasites in the human gut.

As overgrowth of bacteria commences in the colon, it can cause IBD to become more severe and can even cause a relapse.

Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressant drugs, including azathioprine and methotrexate, are used to reduce the immune system’s activity.

Such medicines are usually deployed in people with IBD, as hyperactive immune systems can assault the cells in the colon and promote swelling. Immunosuppressant drugs aim to help prevent this from occurring by calming the immune system. However, side effects can involve nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

More ominously, the use of immunosuppressants can increase the risk of severe infections and certain types of cancer, so make sure to use these medications under direct supervision of your physician.

Conclusion

While medication is often necessary to manage symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, certain drugs can actually increase the risk of sickness, leading to more severe symptoms and the potential for complications.

Steroids, NSAIDs, antibiotics, acid suppressors, and immunosuppressants are among the most common culprits. Close monitoring by healthcare providers can be particularly useful in preventing further problems. If you are taking medication for IBD and experience any new symptoms or concerns, it is essential to raise them with your healthcare provider promptly.