Drug Ther Bull. 1997 Apr;35(4):30-1. doi: 10.1136/dtb.1997.35430.
Budesonide is a glucocorticoid with high local activity but much lower systemic availability than prednisolone. Topical formulations have long been licensed for use in asthma and rhinitis. Here we discuss a new orally active controlled-release preparation of budesonide (Entocort CR-Astra) formulated specifically for treating patients with Crohn's disease affecting the ileum and/or ascending colon. The manufacturer claims that the preparation "targets the ileum and ileocaecal area, achieving rapid results equivalent to prednisolone" with a "low level of systemic steroid side effects".
