Conventional therapy for Crohn’s disease

Table 2 Drugs for the treatment of CD

Drug	Systemicorticosteroids (prednisone equivalent) or budesonide
Dosage	Corticosteroids: 30-60 mg/d or 1-1.5 mg/kg per day; Budesonide: 9 mg
Indications	Corticosteroids: moderate to severe disease. Budesonide: terminal ileal and right colonic disease in mild to moderate disease, low dose budesonide eventually for maintenace therapy
Important side effects	Weight gain, hypertension, fluid retention, myopathy, mood changes, infections, glaucoma, skin changes including acne, adrenal suppresion. Long term side effects: osteoporosis, cataract, aseptic bone necrosis
Pregnancy	Lower doses seem to be relatively safe
Comments	Avoid long-term use