When it comes to treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), steroids are often the go-to option. However, there are other alternatives that can be used to induce remission and support nutrition. Dexamethasone, methotrexate, mycophenolate, mercaptopurine, azathioprine, and leflunomide are some of the alternatives to prednisone. Enteral nutrition is a special diet that only contains fluids and can be used as an alternative to steroids.
People who follow this diet don't need to eat regular foods or beverages because the liquid diet provides them with all the necessary nutrients they need. This approach may be especially helpful for children when there is concern that steroids may affect growth. In adults, studies show that steroids work better at inducing remission than enteral therapy, but liquid diets or supplements can be used to support nutrition. If you prefer to try the liquid diet approach, discuss this with your IBD team.
The body naturally produces steroids, such as the hormone testosterone, to build muscle tissue, among other important body processes.It's important to note that while these alternatives may be effective in inducing remission, they may not be as effective as steroids in treating IBD. Therefore, it's important to discuss all of your options with your doctor before making a decision about which treatment is best for you. If you're looking for an alternative to steroids for treating IBD, there are several options available. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of each option and decide which one is best for you.
