How long for Imuran to work?

I have had IBS for 45 years and was diagnosed with left side ulcerative colitis in Dec. 07.  Early treatment with Rowasa, Pentasa, Entocort, Colozal and antibiotics did not bring remission.  Prednisone with Colozal did cause a reduction in frequency of bowel movements and other symptoms.  Once tapered off of Prednisone symptoms returned.  Have been on low dose of Prednisone since Feb.  Began Imuran on Feb 21, once determined I was steroid dependent.  I currently take 100 mg of Imuran, 9 Colozal and 10 mg of Prednisone daily and have 7 to 12 bowel movements daily with occasional accidents.  Should this combination of treatments have caused remission in these two months or am I impatient?

Welcome to HealingWell, bowelsafire. I feel your pain, believe me.

The average on Imuran, they say, is three months, but it can take as long as six. You should be having frequent blood counts as liver function testing, and periodic blood tests being sent to check on your Imuran level. People metabolize the drug differently, so dosage is based on blood levels rather than body weight as in many medications.

I'm sorry you've joined the group of UC sufferers, but glad you found us here at HealingWell. This is a great place to learn from others' experience and get support.

Hi and welcome to Healingwell :) Yes, you are a bit impatient but who can't be with this disease eh? We all want to feel better like right now! I does take a while for it to work and if by 6 months you have absolutely no improvement whatsoever, you need to discuss your options with your GI.