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Mesalazine is a medication that is part of the group aminosalicylic acids.

Asacol, Pentasa, Rowasa, Lialda are other names of this medication

It is considered an anti-inflammatory drug. It works by preventing the body from producing certain hormones and substances that trigger Inflammation.

Blood work should be checked on a routine basis in order to check Liver and Kidney function and status.

Uses:

1.)  Ulcerative Colitis

2.)  Crohn’s Disease

Method of Action:

–  Acts directly on the intestines
–  It is the active ingredient in Sulfasalazine when metabolized

Side Effects:

–  Diarrhea
–  Nausea
–  Vomiting
–  Bloating
–  Cramping
–  Decreased Appetite
–  Heartburn
–  Headache
–  Burping
–  Muscle Aches
–  Back pain
–  Gas
–  Constipation
–  Dry mouth
–  Itching
–  Dizziness
–  Slight Hair Loss
–  Others

More Serious Side Effects – Call your Provider

–  Chest pain
–  Blood in stool – especially if black or tarry
–  Bloody Vomit
–  Coffee ground Vomit
–  Shortness of Breath
–  Unexpected Swelling of any part of the body

Before Taking Mesalamine – Take a look at the Following:

1.)  Tell your Doctor if you are allergic to any of the following medications:

–  Mesalamine
–  Balsalazide (Colazal, Giazo)
–  Olsalazine (Dipentum)
–  Salicylate pain relievers such as: Aspirin, Choline magnesium trisalicylate, Diflunisal, Magnesium Salicylate
–  Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)

2.)  Tell your doctor and Pharmacist if you take any vitamins, nutritional supplements or herbal products.

3.)  Inform your doctor if you take Mallox, Tums, Rolaids, Calcium carbonate, Aspirin, NSAIDs (IBU, Alieve, etc)

4.) Inform your doctor if you take: Azathioprine (Azan, Imuran) or Mercaptopruine (Purinethol)

5.) Inform your doctor if you have Myocarditis, Pericarditis, Liver or Kidney problems.

6.)  Tell your doctor if you are or are planning on becoming Pregnant