Biologics

Although there is no cure for crohns and colitis, there are many ways to manage your symptoms. Biologics are one of the most common methods of treatment. Biologics for the treatment of crohns and colitis include remicade, cimzia, humira, and tysabri.  Remicade, humira, and cimzia are made of antibodies that fight of a protein called tumor necrosis factor alpha. Tysabri blocks white blood cells going to the cite of inflammation causing more damage. These biologics are also mainly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis patients.
I have used remicade, humira, and Im currently taking cimzia.
Remicade is a great option for patients. It is an infusion that can last 4 to 6 hours and is usually followed after a tylenol or benadryl. It worked very well for me while I was on it, until one day. It was my 5th infusion and 15 minutes in, I went into anaphylactic shock. Within seconds my body was on fire, my head felt like it was literally going to combust, and my mom says my eyes were purple. My life flashed before my elementary aged eyes. I will never forget taking my moms hand and telling her I didnt want to die. That day changed me forever. I cant take any new medication without being afraid that it could happen again. Anyways that was my last day on remicade.
Next was humira. It is a sub-Q injection you take in you stomach or thigh. To be honest, there isnt much to report. They didnt do anything at all.
On to Cimzia. It is the same type of injection as Humira. I give myself 2 shots every month. It works. I know because I decided to go off of it and when I did I got sick. It took about 4 months of being back on it, but It has helped me gain weight and improve my blood levels. Its not fun stabbing myself every month but thats what I have to do to stay as healthy as I can.
I havent tried Tysabri, and I dont want to because that would mean Cimzia isnt working anymore, but maybe it would work for you.
Just know all the risk factors of these medications before you take them. It is also important that you get tested for TB before you start a biologic, you could end up in a worse situation. Also make sure you dont have any infections while on a biologic. I know I may sound like a commercial but its critical you are cleared by your doctor before you start any new medication.