Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are one type of medication your healthcare provider may prescribe to treat inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract.

As with any medication, it's important to take corticosteroids as prescribed and communicate with your healthcare team if you have any questions or concerns.

About Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids lower the activity of your immune system and limit the inflammation in the digestive tract. They are used as short-term treatments for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis flares because they reduce inflammation quickly, sometimes within a few days to a few months.

It is important to note that corticosteroids are not considered long-term therapies due to the high potential of side effects. Corticosteroids can be taken orally, rectally, or via an injection depending on which medication you take.

You can learn more about corticosteroids in our IBD Medication Guide or our corticosteroid fact sheet.