Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
These medicines are used along with a gluten-free diet. They may be needed if the diet alone does not stop symptoms.
Prescription Medicines
- Prednisone
- Betamethasone
- Clobetasone butyrate
- Azathioprine
- Infliximab
- Cyclosporine
- Alemtuzumab
- Cladribine
Medicine to treat itchy skin rash caused by celiac disease
- Dapsone
- Sulfonamide
- Topical corticosteroids or antihistamines
Common names are:
- Prednisone
- Betamethasone
- Clobetasone butyrate
These drugs can lower or stop inflammation in the intestines. They may be used with medicines to lower the immune system.
Some problems may be:
- Stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Moodiness
- Changes in appetite
- Weight gain
Serious side effects are:
- Slowed growth in children
- Slow wound healing
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Osteoporosis
Common names are:
- Azathioprine
- Infliximab
- Cyclosporine
- Alemtuzumab
- Cladribine
These drugs lower the immune system. They may be given before or with a corticosteroid.
Some problems may be:
- Infection
- Anemia
- Problems with blood clotting
- Fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
Common names are:
- Dapsone—antibiotic
- Sulfonamide
- Corticosteroids or antihistamine creams or lotions
Some problems may be:
- Dry, red skin
- Peeling skin
- Allergic reaction
- Joint swelling or pain
- Belly pain
- Lightheadedness
- Symptoms of hemolytic anemia (dapsone):
- Weakness
- Paleness
- Shortness of breath
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
References
Caio G, Volta U, et al. Celiac disease: a comprehensive current review. BMC Med. 2019 Jul 23;17(1):142.
Celiac disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/celiac-disease. Accessed January 4, 2021.
Celiac disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/malabsorption-syndromes/celiac-disease. Accessed January 4, 2021.
Poorly responsive celiac disease. Celiac Disease Foundation website. Available at: https://celiac.org/celiac-disease/understanding-celiac-disease-2/poorly-responsive-celiac-disease. Accessed January 5, 2021.
Treatment for celiac disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/celiac-disease/treatment. Accessed January 5, 2021.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Review Date: 12/2020
- Update Date: 01/05/2021