Any over the counter stuff to help stop inflammation of the colon?

Question

I was given a prescription to Lialda but it costs nearly $300 even with my insurance. I was wondering if there was anything I could take that is sold over the counter until I can afford the real medication...

Answer 1

I have this Ulcerative Cholitis, which is what this medication is perscribed for. I hope your Dr. gave you a lot of information about this disease because it isn't a choice, you need to take your medicine or you will become severly anemic, and while the disease itself is not fatal, not treating the side effects of what it can do, are. I've already been hospitalized once this year because of this.

Outside of that, I am on an alternative for this medication so there are other medication options out there, and I believe at least one of them may come in generic format. Like the above poster mentioned, if the price is too high be sure to check with your Dr. the options. This one he perscribed to you I believe is fairly new to the market, and most patients like it because its 1-2 times daily. Whereas other medications of this same type, you have to take 2-4 times per day... I'm on one called Pentasa, that I take 4 times a day for 16 pills total.
I believe my co-pay for a three month supply of it is 30/40$ so there are other options.
Hope that helps, and good luck!

Answer 2

Metamucil or other finely ground psyllium compound (unflavoured) as often as three times a day - the powder not the pills. Most drug stores have their own version at a lower cost. Also take a pro-biotic - acidophilus, once or twice a day. Keep this in the refrigerator.

Whether you have IBS-D or IBS-C, as long as your colon is inflamed at all, these products will help with the discomfort. Eating plain yogurt daily will alter the intestinal flora to your benefit as well. If you don't like it, add a little honey and/or fruit.

I'm so sorry about the expensive medication. Be well!

Answer 3

I seriously think you need to tell your doctor it costs too much and ask for an alternative.

Don't wait until you can afford it. You want to keep it under control. I'm not a doctor or anything, but I have Crohn's. I'm on Asacol and it's about $80 a month after insurance. I'm sure it depends on exactly what you have though.