Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
How CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy® can help
Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are chronic—but manageable—inflammatory bowel diseases that affect the body’s digestive system.¹ While CD and UC present challenges, treatments are available to help manage symptoms so you can live a full, active life.
What is Crohn's disease?²
CD is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. It can affect any part of the digestive tract, but it’s most commonly found in the small intestine.
CD usually develops during late adolescence or early adulthood. The disease can be unpredictable—it’s common to alternate between recurring flare-ups and periods of remission.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue and weight loss.
What is ulcerative colitis?³
UC is a condition that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, leaving these body parts swollen and sore.
UC can develop at any age, but it’s most commonly diagnosed in people between 15–30. The disease is thought to be caused by a combination of genetics, the environment and the immune system.
Common symptoms are similar to CD, and can be managed with treatment and medications.
Treatment options for CD include medications, dietary changes and surgery in some cases.
Treating CD minimizes inflammation in the small intestine, which can cause discomfort and more serious health complications. The goal of treating CD is to ease symptoms, prevent flare-ups and ultimately achieve remission.
CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy offers medications to treat CD, as directed by your prescriber.
Treatment options for UC include medications, dietary changes and surgery in some cases.
The best treatment plan depends on the severity of the disease, and the patient’s health. Treatment should be started as soon as possible to ease symptoms, prevent flare-ups or sores and ultimately achieve remission.
CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy offers medications to treat UC, as directed by your prescriber.
Getting involved with your community
Whether it’s joining a support group or contributing to message boards, you can make a difference for others living with CD or UC.
Specialists who work remotely to support you wherever you are
Emotional support
Get 1-on-1 support from healthcare professionals who understand what you’re going through. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions and help you manage any stress or anxiety.
Financial assistance
Don’t stress the bills. We work with financial assistance programs like grants, foundations and manufacturers to help you get the care you need. We’ll also assist you with the application process.
Clinical guidance
Receive personalized support regularly and instructions on how to take your meds. We’ll also work with your doctor to adjust your therapy if you’re experiencing side effects.
Sources
- "Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)," Mayo Clinic, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
- "What is Crohn's Disease?," Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
- "What is Ulcerative Colitis?," Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
This information is not intended as a substitute for medical care or advice provided by your doctor or professional care provider. Only your doctor or professional care provider can diagnose and treat a medical condition.
Links to various other websites from this site are provided for your convenience only and do not constitute or imply endorsement by CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy, its parent company or affiliates ("CenterWell Pharmacy") of these sites, any products, views, or services described on these sites, or of any other material contained therein. CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy disclaims responsibility for their content and accuracy.
Information on this website may contain inaccuracies or errors. Information may be changed or updated without notice. CenterWell Pharmacy® only provides periodic updates to this site; therefore, any information presented may be out of date.