Reply to "Trying Uceris"

Uceris is the same medication as Entocort (budesonide), however it is delayed release until the colon. So, like other UC meds, such as Asacol or Azulfidine, it can be used for ileal pouch issues. The delayed release is pH dependent, releasing when the pH rises.

http://www.uceris.com/patient/...-provides-relief.asp

What has me baffled is why your doctor chose Uceris over Entocort, which definitely releases in the small intestine. Entocort is even available as a retention enema, if you wanted targeted topical treatment.

http://www.astrazeneca.com/Med...al/Product/Entocort-

Budesonide is superior to prednisone because it is considered a topical steriod and less likely to produce the systemic effects and side effects of prednisone. The 80mg taper you suggest is very high dose, and 40mg is more typical for an acute treatment course.

My other, and most primary concern, is the fact that your symptoms started after a course of antibiotics, so ths sounds more like a C. difficile infection. There are still doctors out there that think you cannot get C. difficile infections in the small bowel. Treating C. difficile with steroids is definitely the wrong way to go, as it can make it much worse. This should be ruled out with a stool toxin test.

http://www.gutpathogens.com/content/1/1/7

Personally, I think you need to have a talk with your doctor and make sure you have the right diagnosis.

Jan