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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Sulfasalazine is used to treat ulcerative colitis and also to maintain improvement of ulcerative colitis symptoms. This medication is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis in adults whose disease has not responded well to other medications or could not be tolerated. Sulfasalazine is in a class of medications called anti-inflammatory drugs. It works by reducing inflammation (swelling) inside the body.
Uses and Dosage
Sulfasalazine is available in both regular and delayed-release tablets. The delayed-release tablets are designed to release the medication in the intestine, preventing stomach irritation and ensuring the medication works in the intestine where its effects are needed. Typically, it is taken 3 to 6 times a day with evenly spaced doses, making sure that no more than 8 hours elapse between any two doses, if possible.
For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis or polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, sulfasalazine delayed-release tablets are usually taken twice a day with evenly spaced doses throughout the day. Take sulfasalazine after a meal or with a light snack, followed by a full glass of water.
Take sulfasalazine precisely as directed, avoiding taking more or less of it or increasing the frequency beyond your doctor’s prescription.
When taking delayed-release tablets, swallow them whole; do not crush or chew.
You need to stay well-hydrated while taking sulfasalazine, so drink plenty of fluids.
Continue taking sulfasalazine even if you feel well. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- yellow or orange discoloration of urine or skin
- diarrhea
- headache
- loss of appetite
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- stomach pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash, hives, itching or peeling or blistering skin
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, mouth, or throat
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swollen glands
- fever, sore throat, chills, cough, night sweats, and other signs of infection
- pale skin, tiredness, or shortness of breath
- joint or muscle aches
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- pain in the right upper part of the stomach
- difficult or painful urination or cloudy, discolored or blood urine
- chest pain
- new or worsening cough
- tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- weakness
- seizures
Caution
- Before taking sulfasalazine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to sulfasalazine, sulfa drugs, aspirin and related drugs (such as salicylates, NSAIDs like ibuprofen), mesalamine, or any other substances.
- Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of intestinal or urinary blockage, kidney disease, liver disease, blood disorders, a certain genetic condition (G6PD deficiency), asthma, severe allergies, or current/recent/returning infections.
- This medication may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate dizziness. Refrain from driving, using machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
- Sulfasalazine may increase sun sensitivity. Restrict your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen along with protective clothing outdoors. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- As this medication is similar to aspirin, children and teenagers under 18 years old should avoid aspirin or aspirin-related medications if they have chickenpox, flu, any undiagnosed illness, or have recently received a live virus vaccine (such as varicella vaccine), without consulting a doctor due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
- Sulfasalazine may temporarily affect male fertility. Consult your doctor for more information.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary. Use caution if close to the expected delivery date, as similar drugs may harm a newborn. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, contact your doctor immediately.
- This medication may lower folic acid levels, increasing the risk of spinal cord defects. Ensure you are taking enough folic acid, and prenatal care should include tests for spinal cord defects.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Salazopyrin EC is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Salazopyrin EC delayed-release tablet:
- 500 mg
- sulfasalazine delayed-release tablet:
- 500 mg
FAQ
How long does Salazopyrin take to work?
Sulfasalazine does not work straight away. It may take 1 to 3 months before you notice your symptoms get better. It depends on how high your dose is and how severe your symptoms are.
Is it safe to take Salazopyrin for a long time?
Salazopyrin can be taken long term. However, your doctor will want to check how your kidneys are working before and during treatment. In rare cases Salazopyrin can cause kidney problems.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sulfasalazine/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sulfasalazine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20066179?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6260/sulfasalazine-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682204.html
- https://www.drugs.com/sulfasalazine.html
