When do you know its time to start stronger meds?

Hi was just wondering when you thought it was the right time to start stronger medication?

I've been on Pentasa 3000mg and Azathiroprine 100mg for many years and have just recently had a ileum cecum operation due to feeling bloated and distended for 9 months continuously. I'm seeing my GI in a few days and will be asking him if he thought the medication I've been on in the past has been working efficiently. I've had Crohns for roughly 17 years but started getting blockages after around 2 years once diagnosed. When I had my surgery 3 weeks ago the surgeon told me to stop all meds and he thought thats what my GI would recommend too. I know this is not right so will be asking him about meds and possible stronger ones too, like remicade or Humira. Im still having diarrhea about 4 times per day.

Just wondered what your views were. Thanks

It would be unlikely for your physician to recommend remicade or any other immuno-modulating drugs unless you have active disease. There are many serious risks associated with these, relatively new, medications. There are certainly times when the risks are outweighed by the benefits but probably not when you have just had surgery and appear to be symptom free. Diarrhea four times a day less than a month after resection is is within the realm of normal.

Spiceman, How have you been since your surgery?
I'm one week post-op today.