Alongside corticosteroids, which medication can be used for Crohn's disease treatment?

Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a cytokine involved in the inflammatory processes of Crohn's disease. By inhibiting TNF-alpha, infliximab reduces inflammation and promotes mucosal healing in patients with moderate to severe active Crohn's disease, making it an effective treatment option alongside corticosteroids.

In contrast, sucralfate primarily acts as a protective agent for ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract and does not specifically address the inflammatory processes of Crohn's disease. Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic that is used for pain management but does not influence the underlying inflammation. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is primarily utilized in the management of asthma and allergies, and it is not indicated for the treatment of Crohn's disease. Therefore, infliximab is the preferred adjunct medication alongside corticosteroids for managing Crohn's disease due to its specific action on the inflammatory pathways involved in this condition.