Pentasa

mesalamine

Brand(s):

• Mesacol

Manufacturer:

• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Ulcerative Colitis

Mesalamine Tablets

What is Mesalamine?

Mesalamine is a medication used to manage the pain and inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. This helps to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting mesalamine, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history. This includes:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the opening between the stomach and small intestine)
• Any known allergies to mesalamine, salicylates, other medications, sulfites, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

Providing this information helps your doctor determine if mesalamine is the right treatment for you and adjust the dosage accordingly.

How to Take Mesalamine

Mesalamine tablets are taken orally with a glass of water. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Maintain a consistent schedule for taking your medication. Never adjust your dosage or stop treatment without consulting your doctor.

Children require special considerations; consult your pediatrician before administering mesalamine to a child.

Overdose: In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a poison control center or emergency room.

Important Note: This medication is prescribed for your individual use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Mesalamine may interact with other medications. Some known interactions include digoxin. It's essential to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. This includes mentioning if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. This allows for a thorough evaluation of potential interactions.

Monitoring Your Treatment

If you don't see improvement in your symptoms within a few days, contact your doctor. Typically, you should experience some relief within 3 to 21 days, with optimal results often seen after around 6 weeks of treatment.

Do not switch brands of mesalamine without consulting your doctor, as different brands may have varying dosages.

You may sometimes see empty tablet shells in your stool. While this is usually harmless, frequent occurrence warrants a call to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, facial swelling)
• Bloody diarrhea
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Fever
• Painful or difficult urination
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but report if they persist or bother you):

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Gas
• Stomach pain or cramps

This isn't an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage Instructions

Keep mesalamine out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.