Key takeaways
Budesonide (Entocort EC) and natalizumab (Tysabri) are both used to treat Crohn's disease, but they belong to different medication classes. Budesonide is a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the intestines, while natalizumab is an integrin antagonist that may work by blocking signals that cause inflammation. Budesonide is taken orally as a capsule once daily, whereas natalizumab is given as a monthly intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional. Budesonide is available as a generic, making it a more cost-effective option, while natalizumab is only available as a brand-name medication. Common side effects of budesonide include headache and respiratory infections, while natalizumab can cause headaches and fatigue. Both medications can increase the risk of infections, but natalizumab has a higher risk of serious infections, including a rare brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Additionally, natalizumab requires enrollment in a special monitoring program due to its risks.
