Is There a Cure for Crohn’s Disease?
Currently, there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but more recent medications are assisting in improving quality of life and prolonging remission periods. Scientists are working hard to find ways to prevent and even cure the disease.
They’re developing treatments aimed at symptoms as well as searching for possible cures. Some of the newest methods are aimed at preventing inflammation before it occurs, rather than simply treating it after it occurs. There’s also an effort to create treatments that are more specific in the gut.
Below, we’ll look at some promising drugs in development that could help ease symptoms—or possibly even prevent or cure Crohn’s. We’ll also cover the treatments currently available.
Current Treatment Goals
While there’s no cure yet, treatments aim to:
Reduce inflammation-related symptoms
Prevent complications
Achieve remission
Keep inflammation under control
In 2020, researchers discovered a microscopic marker that could help predict flare-ups. This kind of early detection might lead to personalized treatments, improving long-term symptom relief.
New Drugs in the Works
1. The Antibiotic Mix RHB-104 & Anti-MAP Treatment
RHB-104 is also one of the more intriguing new drugs on the horizon. Some scientists suspect Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP)—a bacterium that’s been associated with intestinal disease in cows—may be responsible for Crohn’s. But not everyone is convinced, as not all Crohn’s sufferers are positive for MAP, and not everyone who carries MAP has Crohn’s.
A 2018 clinical trial of RHB-104 (a combination of clarithromycin, rifabutin, and clofazimine) was encouraging, with a significant correlation to remission. More trials are still required, however, and in the meantime, experts suggest continuing with established treatments.
2. A Possible Vaccine
Between 2018 and 2019, a UK test administered an anti-MAP vaccine to 28 volunteers to ensure it was safe. If successful, it may be another 5–10 years before it’s on the market.
3. The JAK1 Inhibitor AZD4205
The initial trial with AZD4205, an oral JAK1 inhibitor, was found to be safe in animals and in healthy human beings. A phase II trial in patients with mild to severe Crohn’s is currently ongoing.
How Is Crohn’s Typically Treated?
Today’s treatments aim at alleviating symptoms and maintaining remission long term. Physicians usually employ a combination of:
Anti-inflammatory medication (such as corticosteroids, although these are typically short-term because of adverse effects)
Immune system suppressors (like azathioprine or methotrexate, which need regular blood checks)
Antibiotics (to close fistulas and ulcers)
Supplements (iron, calcium, vitamin D, B12 injections)
Nutritional therapy (liquid diet or special diet)
Surgery (to remove injured digestive tissue if necessary)
Biologics: A Newer Option
For more advanced cases, biologics such as TNF inhibitors (Remicade, Humira) suppress proteins that cause inflammation. But they eventually can lose their potency. Other choices are:
Natalizumab (Tysabri) & Vedolizumab (Entyvio) – These inhibit integrins, preventing inflammatory cells from entering tissue. Natalizumab has a rare danger of brain disease, so physicians screen for the JC virus first. Vedolizumab appears to be safer, acting only in the gut.
Ustekinumab (Stelara) – The most recently developed biologic, this inhibits certain inflammation mechanisms and is effective when other medications do not work.
Stem Cell Therapy
Early studies indicate stem cells (MSCs) can decrease inflammation, with one study published in 2020 demonstrating long-term reduction in fistulas. Additional studies are indicated.
Diet & the Gut Microbiome
Diet does matter—a study in 2021 revealed the IBD-Anti-Inflammatory Diet (IBD-AID) benefited 61% of its participants by decreasing symptoms. This diet excludes processed foods, dairy, and sugar while concentrating on probiotics and prebiotics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Crohn’s disease ever go away?
There is no cure currently, but treatment can ease symptoms and result in remission.
How long do people with Crohn’s live?
Life expectancy is better, although a 2020 study determined women with Crohn’s live 6–8 years less on average, and men 5–6 years less. Improved treatments might continue to narrow this gap.
How bad is Crohn’s?
Though not fatal, it can create serious complications. Treatment and alterations in diet reduce risks.
Can you lead a normal life if you have Crohn’s?
Yes—with treatment, many individuals control symptoms well and have long periods of remission.
The Takeaway
Research is happening quickly, and treatments on the horizon are promising. Seeing a Crohn’s specialist ensures you receive the newest and best care.