Rowasa Enema

The active ingredient in Rowasa 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 Rowasa enema. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Rowasa 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 and the color appears off-white.
• 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 applicator tip 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 30 minutes.
• Ensure a sun safety routine is practiced, which includes a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and wearing protective clothing to avoid getting sunburned.
• 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 Rowasa enema seen in clinical trials include:

• Dizziness
• Flatulence
• Headache
• Rectal pain
• Irritation in the rectal area
• Joint pain
• Hair loss
• Inflammation in the large intestine
• Photosensitivity

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Rowasa 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:

• Serious allergic reaction: trouble breathing, skin reactions including hives or skin rash, enlarged lymph nodes, or swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue.
• Inflammation in the heart: chest pain, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath
• Kidney disease: decreased amount of urine, 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 Rowasa 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 Rowasa 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
• Known allergy to sulfites
• Liver disease or impaired liver function
• Breathing problem
• Hypersensitivity to sulfasalazine
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Eczema or atopic dermatitis

Do not use Rowasa enema if you have:

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

This enema will improve symptoms within 1 - 3 weeks.

When Rowasa 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 rectal suspension enema. The strength available includes 4 g for the enema.

This medication should be stored at controlled room temperature and away from light and extreme temperatures, and out of reach of children. Ensure that contents that appear dark brown in color are discarded.

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures Rowasa is Alaven Pharmaceuticals.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand names Rowasa and Sfrowasa.

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

It is unknown if Rowasa can affect your unborn child. 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.

Rowasa 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.