Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Entocort (budesonide) and Remicade (infliximab) are both used to treat Crohn's disease, but they have several differences. Entocort is a corticosteroid taken orally once a day, while Remicade is a biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) given through an IV infusion by a healthcare provider. Entocort works by reducing inflammation in the intestines, whereas Remicade blocks a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to lower inflammation in the body. Entocort is available as a lower-cost generic, and Remicade is available as a lower-cost brand biosimolar. Entocort is typically used for short-term treatment, while Remicade can be used long-term as long as it is effective and well-tolerated. Common side effects of Entocort include headaches and respiratory infections, while Remicade can cause serious infections, cancer, and heart problems. Additionally, Remicade requires regular monitoring and can only be administered by a healthcare professional, whereas Entocort can be taken at home.
Budesonide
Remicade (infliximab)
Budesonide
Remicade (infliximab)
Summary of Entocort vs. Remicade
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Budesonide is a corticosteroid that's used to treat mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease in adults and children. It's available as capsules that are taken by mouth once daily. The most common side effects are headache and respirator infections. More rarely, it might cause weight gain too.
Summary for Biologic DMARD
Prescription only
Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.
Indications of Entocort vs. Remicade
Indications for
•Mild-to-moderate active Crohn's disease in people ages 8 years and older