Uses
Mesalazine is part of a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates. Aminosalicylates work by reducing inflammation in the lining of the intestines. This is useful for the maintenance treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology
Mesalazine is part of a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates. Aminosalicylates work by reducing inflammation in the lining of the intestines. This is useful for the maintenance treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Mesalazine is mainly indicated to treat the following conditions:
Mesalazine is available as an oral tablet, granules, and rectal suppository. The oral tablet and granules should be taken by mouth without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in water. Drink a glass of water after swallowing the medication. The tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before meals.
The rectal suppository should be stored at controlled room temperature or in the refrigerator until it is ready to be used. Laying on your side with one leg bent or standing with one leg on a chair can make it easier to insert the suppository. Insert the suppository with the tapered end first. Straighten your legs and sit or lie still for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the medication to dissolve.
This drug should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Rectal suppositories may be stored in the refrigerator to prevent melting. Do not store it in the freezer.
Always check the label before using this product. Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
Mesalazine is a pregnancy category B drug, so it is considered generally safe to use during pregnancy. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this drug include:
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these serious, potentially fatal drug reactions:
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and inform your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs and their interactions with mesalazine include:
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
The absorption of mesalazine is affected by food intake. It is best to take it on an empty stomach. This drug should not be taken with alcohol as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, bleeding, and hepatotoxicity.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using mesalazine.
For treating ulcerative colitis
For treating Crohn’s disease
For treating ulcerative proctitis
For treating ulcerative colitis
For treating Crohn’s disease
This drug is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
People Are Also Reading This
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion