For successfully treating ulcerative colitis with biologic medications, the first step is usually to have blood tests done. These tests help spot active infections, such as hepatitis B or tuberculosis.

This is an important safety measure because biologics affect the immune system and can make it harder for the body to fight off certain infections.

If you are a candidate for biologics, your doctor will also explain how the medications are given and the most common side effects.

Biologic medications can be given as a shot or an IV infusion.
When the treatment is by infusion, the medication is given through a vein in a specialized medical center, where health care staff can answer questions and treat any discomfort.
It's important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Starting treatment shortly after ulcerative colitis is diagnosed may help you get better results. Infusions can last between 30 minutes and several hours.

If your doctor recommends self-injections, you should keep these shots refrigerated at a standard temperature (between 36 F and 46 F). Before applying them, leave them at room temperature to ease the pain where the needle goes in.

This method allows you to apply the medication at home and avoid trips to a medical center, although not everyone is comfortable with using a needle. You can practice in your doctor's office before you start.

Staying consistent with your treatment helps lower the chances of delayed or canceled infusions. Missing a dose or pausing treatment can cause your ulcerative colitis symptoms to return.

To keep your treatment on track:

• Set reminders on your phone for each dose.
• If you cancel an infusion, schedule a new appointment as soon as possible.
• Request your shots ahead of time, before you run out.

Being consistent is one of the best ways to help your treatment keep working over time.

One simple way to stay organized with your treatment is to keep a journal. In it, you can write down:

• Your symptoms before and after starting biologics
• What you eat and how your body reacts
• Each shot or infusion, with the date and time
• Side effects to discuss at your next medical appointment

The more information you share with your doctor, the easier it will be to check your treatment progress and make changes if needed.

You can make some changes to help improve your treatment results.
One option is to follow a low-FODMAP diet, which limits certain carbohydrates that are hard to digest and can cause gas or diarrhea. Avoid dairy, honey, apples, wheat, garlic, onions, legumes, soy, cauliflower, pistachios, and sweets.

Other helpful changes:

• Don't smoke or quit smoking.
• Exercise regularly.
• Keep a healthy weight.
• Stay well hydrated.

Biologic medications can cause redness, itching, bruising, pain, or swelling where the needle went in. You may also have fatigue, headaches, or nausea.

To help ease these symptoms:

• Apply cold compresses if you have pain or swelling.
• Ask your doctor if you can take something for the pain or discomfort.
• Moisturize the area where the needle went in with a suitable cream.
• Drink water to help soothe nausea.

No one knows better than you whether your biologic treatment is working. In the days or weeks after the first dose, you may notice a decrease in:

• Abdominal (belly) pain and cramping
• The presence of blood or pus in your stool
• How often you have diarrhea

If you notice these changes, share them with your doctor.
And if you don't feel relief right away, don't get discouraged. The treatment can take time to work, and your doctor may change your dose or medication.

The results of biologic treatment can vary from person to person, and that's normal. That's why it's important to give yourself time and to be patient with yourself. Some people notice relief in the first few weeks, while for others it may take longer.

With continued use, many people improve gradually. In the meantime, focus on taking care of yourself and managing stress. Simple activities like meditation, yoga, or walking can help you feel better physically and emotionally.

If you live with ulcerative colitis, remission means that symptoms lessen or disappear, and your quality of life may improve. Biologic treatment can work, but it usually does so slowly.

Symptoms may improve gradually, and over time, some people reach remission.

Staying consistent with your doses, keeping up with your daily routines, and taking care of your mental health can help improve the results of your treatment and get you closer to your goal of remission.