Mesalamine Oral


DNX0533.HTM

Mesalamine (By mouth)
Mesalamine (me-SAL-a-meen)

Treats bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Brand Name(s):Asacol, Pentasa, Lialda
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mesalamine or salicylates.

How to Use This Medicine:
Long Acting Capsule, Delayed Release Tablet, Coated Tablet, Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Swallow the medicine whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
  • It is best to take the delayed-release tablet with food.
  • If you see whole capsules or tablet parts in your bowel movements, tell your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using azathioprine (Imuran®), 6-mercaptopurine (Purinethol®), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®), or pain or arthritis medicine (sometimes called NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, or Aleve®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach problem.
  • Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®).
  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
  • Your doctor will need to check your urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Bloody diarrhea.
  • Fever, chills, sore throat.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Severe stomach cramps, especially in the upper abdominal area.
  • Tremors.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.
  • Unusual weakness or tiredness.
  • Yellow skin or eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Constipation or mild diarrhea.
  • Dizziness.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Headache.
  • Joint or muscle pain.
  • Mild skin rash.
  • Nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach pain or upset.
  • Tiredness or trouble sleeping.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.