Crohn's & 6-MP

My DH is supposed to start 6-MP in about 5 days. We are both terribly concerned about this medication because the possible side effects are HORRIBLE.

A little backround: DH was diagnosed with Crohn's at the age of 15. This was his first flair up and he was hospitalized for about 5 days. He was prescribed Asacol and was on that for about 14yrs. He now sees a new Crohn's doctor (who is supposibly the best) and he took him off Asacol about 8months ago. His doctor said it was not doing anything for him. Since the stop off Asacol he has had a terrible flair up and now has a fistula which resulted in being hospitilized for 3 days in May.

Since his hospitalization in May he went back to the doctors and his doctor wants him on 6-MP starting next week. We are extremely concerened and we're wondering if this is really necessary. He does have Crohn's but he doesn't have many flair ups so I don't think that sometime as strong as 6-MP is necessary.

If there is anyone on 6-MP and had/has similar concerns please tell me your experience.

I also want to add that the most recent flair up many have nothing to do with stopping Asacol. DH started eating raw vegetables and dip the week prior to this happening which could have resulted in the flair up.

TIA!

Re: Crohn's & 6-MP

I've been on 6MP since 2000. It totally saved my life I haven't had a crohn's flare since 2000. Thank GOD. The only side effects I've had are lowered immunity, thin/damaged hair.... I think that's it.. I too was placed on 6MP after having a fistula & it was able to stop the fistula from forming.

Let me know if you have any specific questions.. My dr wants me to eventually go off of it and begin Remicade treatments, but from doing research, I'm not quite sure I want to go down that road.. 6MP has worked for me. I'm very thankful for it..

best of luck to your DH & a quick and speedy recovery

Re: Crohn's & 6-MP

Thank you for your response. I may have more questions for you. If I do, I will FM you.

Thanks again

Re: Crohn's & 6-MP

I have never been on 6mp but I know many folks who have a great life because they are under control with it.

I think I know who your doc is if he's pushing 6mp. My doc and I have talked about Humira extenstively and it may be my next medication.

Crohns keeps destroying the lining of the digestive tract even if there are no symptoms. It continues to effect you on a molecular level.

A flare up usually doesn"t happen from eating something that bothers you. It can make you not feel great for a few days but flares don't get better by themselves usually.

Maybe it's time for a second opinion. There are other meds out there that can help him and they don't have 6mp side effects.

Please feel free to ask questions. I've had Crohns since I was 16 and I've had one resection. I wasn't on any meds for a long time.

The disease sucks.