Mesasal

The active ingredient in Mesasal is mesalazine. It is also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Its mechanism of action is from its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce the production of prostaglandins, resulting in a decrease in the inflammation that’s seen in the colon. It can decrease the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including rectal bleeding, and help prevent flare-ups.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Mesasal. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Mesasal:

• The recommended dose is 1.5 g - 3 g in divided doses every day.
• Ensure a sun safety routine is practiced, which includes a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wearing protective clothing.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose.

The most common side effects of Mesasal seen in clinical trials include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Back pain
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• Cold symptoms
• Rash
• Inflammation in the large intestine
• Sun sensitivity

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Mesasal. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction: trouble breathing, skin reactions including hives or skin rash like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
• Inflammation in the heart: chest pain, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath
• Oligospermia (reversible decrease in semen production)
• Kidney damage: decreased urination, fatigue, and swelling of the legs, feet, arms, or hands
• Kidney stones: Lower back pain, bloody urine, and stomach pain
• Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome: abdominal pain, cramping, and bloody diarrhea
• Liver problems: yellowing of the eyes and skin, loss of appetite, or dark urine
• Low white blood cell count: sore throat, fever, and chills

These are not all of the possible side effects of Mesasal. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Mesasal, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Kidney problem
• History of pericarditis or myocarditis
• Liver disease or reduced liver function
• Hypersensitivity to sulfasalazine
• Gastrointestinal obstruction or ulcer
• Skin conditions, including eczema or psoriasis

Do not use Mesasal if you have:

• Known allergy to salicylates or aspirin
• Known allergy to mesalamine or any of its inactive ingredients

This medication will improve symptoms within several weeks, so it’s important to ensure consistency and medication adherence.

When Mesasal is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Azathioprine
• 6-mercaptopurine
• Medications used for hypertension, including furosemide
• Antacids
• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

The dosage forms and formulations available include enema, suppository, and enteric-coated tablets. The strength available includes 500 mg enteric-coated tablets.

This medication should be stored at room temperature and away from the reach of children according to the consumer medicine information (CMI) sheet.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Mesasal is GlaxoSmithKline Inc.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand names Mesasal, Lialda, or Pentasa.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider, as tapering is typically recommended for this medication.

It is not known if or how Mesasal could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Mesasal can pass into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.