Which medication is used for long-term management of Crohn's disease?

• A. Azathioprine (Imuran)
• B. Allopurinol (Zyloprim)
• C. Omeprazole (Prilosec)
• D. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)

Answer: (A)

Long-term management of Crohn's disease aims to maintain remission and reduce steroid dependence, which is often achieved with immunomodulators. Azathioprine is an oral immunosuppressant used as maintenance therapy after induction of remission, helping to keep inflammation under control and lower the need for corticosteroids. It works by inhibiting purine synthesis, reducing lymphocyte proliferation and the immune response driving Crohn's disease.

Allopurinol is for gout and hyperuricemia, not Crohn's. Omeprazole suppresses stomach acid and is not a Crohn's maintenance therapy. 5-fluorouracil is a chemotherapy agent used in cancer, not for Crohn's disease.