There are numerous biologic injections or infusions that doctors may recommend for treating Crohn’s disease. They may help reduce the severity of symptoms and the frequency of flare-ups.
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It causes irritation and inflammation of the intestines, typically the small intestines.
Different types of treatments are available for the condition, including injectable medications.
The article examines the injection treatments for Crohn’s disease, who may need them, and other treatment options.
People with Crohn’s disease may take some forms of medications orally. Various types of injection treatments are also available to treat the condition.
A person may receive a class of medications called biologics through an injection. These medications target specific proteins that may lead to inflammation and Crohn’s symptoms. Doctors categorize injectable medications according to the protein they target.
- Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha therapies: These biologics bind to and block a protein that promotes inflammation in the intestines. Examples include certolizumab and adalimumab.
- Anti-interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 therapies: This medication targets the proteins interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, as they may lead to inflammation. One example is ustekinumab.
People with Crohn’s disease need an individualized treatment plan. Everyone may have a different response to medications.
Doctors may recommend biologic injections in cases where a person has not responded well to other treatments.
A doctor can advise on whether they recommend injections for Crohn’s disease as part of someone’s treatment plan.
The frequency of injection treatment can vary depending on the specific medication.
Generally, some biologicals require an injection every 2 weeks. However, some people may need them less frequently, such as every 8 weeks.
A doctor or nurse may administer an injection for Crohn’s disease. In
A subcutaneous injection for Crohn’s disease and an intravenous infusion differ.
Injections for the disease involve injecting medications under the skin. An injection requires either a needle and syringe or an auto-injector pen.
An infusion requires an intravenous line from a vein that allows the medication to go directly into the bloodstream. Usually, a doctor or nurse administers an infusion for Crohn’s disease at an infusion clinic. The time it takes to deliver an infusion varies by the medication.
The preferred delivery method may vary individually. The
Various other treatments are available for Crohn’s disease.
Doctors may recommend different classifications of medications for the condition, including corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and immunosuppressants to change the way the immune system responds.
In severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery. Surgery for Crohn’s disease varies and may include removing part of the intestine.
Dietary changes and nutritional support may also help someone manage their symptoms.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Crohn’s disease.
What is the most effective biologic for Crohn’s?
Everyone is different and may have varying responses to biologics for Crohn’s. There is no single optimal Crohn’s injection treatment for everyone.
Some research indicates that combining different treatments appears to be a suitable option. A
What are the names of the injections for Crohn’s disease?
- adalimumab (Humira)
- certolizumab (Cimzia)
- ustekinumab (Stelara)
What is the strongest medication for Crohn’s disease?
There is no one strongest medication for Crohn’s disease. Doctors base treatments on evidence-based practices and the severity of the individual’s condition.
Various types of injection treatments are available for Crohn’s disease. Biologic injections can target proteins relating to inflammation or change the way the immune system responds.
Although the injections do not cure Crohn’s disease, they may help reduce symptoms. Additional treatment for Crohn’s disease includes oral medications, dietary changes, and surgery.
A person can contact their doctor if they wish to discuss injections for Crohn’s disease. Their doctor will be able to answer any questions they may have and help them make an informed decision about their treatment plan.