Pentasa Enema

The active ingredient in Pentasa is mesalamine. It is also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). It is an anti-inflammatory agent that will decrease the inflammation that can be seen in the colon. It can be used to decrease severe symptoms, including rectal bleeding.

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 Pentasa enema. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Pentasa enema:

• This medication is indicated for rectal use, and 1 enema can be used at bedtime before bowel movements.
• Follow these instructions when using the enema:
• Remove the bottle from its package.
• Shake the bottle until the medication is evenly distributed.
• Twist the nozzle in the clockwise direction to break the seal and ensure the applicator tip is lubricated with petrolatum.
• Put your hand through the plastic bag to protect your hand. After this, grab the bottle.
• While lying down on your left side, shake the bottle and then remove the protective cap. Insert the nozzle into the rectum and empty the contents.
• Remove the applicator and pull the plastic bag over it.
• Roll onto your stomach and stay in that position for 5 minutes.
• 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 Pentasa enema seen in clinical trials include:

• Dizziness
• Flatulence
• Headache
• Itching skin
• Irritation in the rectal area
• Back pain
• Hair loss
• Inflammation in the large intestine
• Photosensitivity

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Pentasa enema. 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, skin rash, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
• Skin reactions such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)/ Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) with symptoms such as black, tarry stools, blisters, chest pain, chills, cough, itching, joint or muscle pain, diarrhea, red skin lesions, often with a purple center, sore throat, ulcers or white spots in or around the mouth, trouble breathing, bleeding or bruising, or unusual tiredness or weakness
• Inflammation in the heart: chest pain, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath
• Kidney disease: decreased urination, fatigue, and swelling of the legs, feet, arms, or hands
• Kidney stones: Lower back pain, bloody urine, and stomach pain
• Acute Intolerance Syndrome: abdominal pain, cramping, and bloody diarrhea
• Liver problems: yellowing of the eyes and skin, loss of appetite, or dark urine
• Low blood cell count: sore throat, fever, and chills

These are not all of the possible side effects of Pentasa enema. 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 Pentasa enema, 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 impaired liver function
• Breathing problem
• Hypersensitivity to sulfasalazine
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Eczema

Do not use Pentasa enema if you have:

• Known allergy to salicylates or aspirin
• Known allergy to mesalazine or any of its inactive ingredients, including hydrochloric acid, or purified water

This enema will improve symptoms within 1 - 3 weeks.

When Pentasa 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
• Blood thinners, including warfarin
• 6-mercaptopurine
• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), including Ibuprofen

The dosage forms available include a mesalazine enema and rectal suppositories. The strength available includes 1 g/100 mL or 4 g/100 mL for the enemas.

This medication should be stored at controlled room temperature and away from light and extreme temperatures, and out of reach of children.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Pentasa is Ferring Pharmaceuticals.

There are lower-cost alternatives to the brand-name Pentasa.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider, as tapering may be recommended for this medication.

Pentasa should be used with caution during pregnancy and only if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks. 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.

Pentasa can pass into the breast milk during lactation. 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.