WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF MEDICATIONS USED TO TREAT IBD?
All medications can have some side effects, and medications for IBD are no exception. Here are some of the possible side effects of medications that your child may be taking for IBD: • Aminosalicylates (5-ASA) are generally tolerable and vary with the specific medication and formulation. Possible side effects may include diarrhea, headaches, and nausea. Some of these side effects can be reduced when the drug is given first in small doses, then increased gradually to a recommended daily dose. Doctors watch for the occurrence of these side effects and decide whether the drug should be continued, reduced, or replaced with other medications. • Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may cause rounding of the face (facial “mooning”), acne, and increased appetite and weight gain. They may cause bones to lose their calcium and become more susceptible to fracture (osteoporosis). Additional side effects include development of diabetes, high blood pressure, and mood swings. Individuals on prolonged
