Long story short, I've been diagnosed as having Chrohn's of the pouch - I was just at Mayo last week and my Dr. mentioned starting me on either prednisone or Remicade...I'm leary about prednisone, due to the side effects - has anyone had better success with one or the other?

The other issue is that I'm going to Mexico in 2 weeks and my doctor is leary to start me on Remicade before then (just in case I were to have a reaction)...would it be worth it to take prednisone short term, until I get back???

I'm sorry about your diagnosis
Definitely Remicade, hands down. I'd have to be pretty bad off to take prednisone again, unless I was told for certain that it would only be a short course or very limited use.
However, I would inquire about Humira. Instead of spending hours at a clinic getting an infusion, you can just give yourself an injection.
As for your trip, prednisone might be useful although it is also an immune-suppressor. Have you been treated with any antibiotics yet? I'd definitely take something, like flagyl or cipro with you to Mexico. Good luck

Another option you may want to consider is Entocort (budesonide) which is a topical steroid and much safer to take for longer periods than prednisone. This might be the easiest to use to get you into remission and sustain it while you travel. Definitely travel with antibiotics too, and DON'T DRINK THE WATER!!!

Jan

I'm currently taking Entocort (and Imuran, Cipro and Cansa) and the ulcers keep coming back....so I feel like I really have no choice but to try Remicade.

If there's a way to treat your condition effectively without Prednisone, do it. Prednisone is very effective medicine but also very bad for you long-term. And it can be tough for some people to come off it. Good luck!

Have you considered Humira? It's the only thing that has worked for me...

I've had extensive experience with both drugs and as intense as Prednisone is, for me the Remicade was worse. After my first treatment I felt better (sort of) but within a couple of days developed neuropathy in my right foot. Had a 2nd treatment and the neuropathy got worse. I've been off meds since my collectomy but still have the neuropathy although it has improved greatly. You're in a tough place with no easy choices. Best of luck, Lou

CAV1.jpg (49 Kb, 3 downloads)

Lou's response illustrates the point that it really is case-by-case and everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for another.

I agree with Lou: you have a tough choice, but you're asking smart questions and approaching your decision-making intelligently.

I really, sincerely hope that you find a medicine or treatment that works for you.