Which of the following treatments is commonly used for ulcerative colitis?

Corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis because they help to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system's response, which is often heightened in this condition. Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the lining of the colon, and corticosteroids can effectively alleviate symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and diarrhea by controlling this inflammatory process.

Corticosteroids, like prednisone, are often prescribed during flare-ups to manage acute symptoms and induce remission. Additionally, they are particularly beneficial for patients who do not respond adequately to other medications, such as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) compounds.

In contrast, while antibiotics might be used in certain cases to manage infections or complications, they are not the first-line treatment for ulcerative colitis itself. Analgesics are typically used to manage pain, but they do not address the underlying inflammation. Proton pump inhibitors, which reduce stomach acid, are not specifically indicated for managing ulcerative colitis and are more commonly used for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Thus, corticosteroids are the most appropriate choice for treating ulcerative colitis and managing its symptoms effectively.