Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Mesalamine is employed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. It also serves to sustain the progress achieved in alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Categorized as anti-inflammatory agents, mesalamine operates by impeding the body’s production of a specific substance known to trigger inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Mesalamine is available in various formulations designed for specific release patterns in the digestive system. These include delayed-release tablets, delayed-release capsules, and extended-release capsules for oral consumption. The delayed-release tablets, such as Lialda, are typically taken with food once a day for both adults and children. Asacol HD, another form of delayed-release tablets, is generally taken on an empty stomach three times a day (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) by adults.
For extended-release capsules, like Apriso, the recommended intake is usually once a day in the morning for adults, with or without food. Pentasa extended-release capsules are taken with or without food four times a day by adults. Delzicol extended-release capsules are usually consumed with or without food 2 to 4 times a day by adults and twice a day by children, preferably in the morning and afternoon.
Take mesalamine precisely as directed by your doctor—avoid taking more or less frequently than prescribed.
Swallow the delayed-release tablets, delayed-release capsules, and extended-release capsules whole; refrain from splitting, chewing, or crushing them. Exercise caution not to break the protective coating on delayed-release tablets. If swallowing the extended-release capsules (Pentasa) poses a challenge, consider opening the capsules and dispersing the entire contents on a tablespoon of applesauce or yogurt. Consume this mixture immediately after preparation. Similarly, if swallowing delayed-release capsules (Delzicol) is difficult, carefully open the capsules, swallow the entire contents without chewing, and then drink a glass of water to ensure all the medicine is ingested.
Maintain proper hydration by drinking plenty of fluids while taking mesalamine.
Continue the mesalamine regimen until you complete the prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early in treatment. Do not discontinue mesalamine without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- muscle or joint pain, aching, tightness or stiffness
- back pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- heartburn
- burping
- constipation
- gas
- dry mouth
- itching
- dizziness
- sweating
- acne
- hair loss
- decreased appetite
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash, hives, itching or peeling or blistering skin
- mouth sores or blisters
- fever or flu-like symptoms
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, mouth, or throat
- swollen glands
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- new or worsening cough
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- black or tarry stools
- bloody vomit
- vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds
- swelling of any part of the body
- side or back pain
- difficult or painful urination, or pink or red colored urine, or blood in urine
- extreme tiredness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- pain in the right upper part of the stomach
- pale stools
Caution
- Prior to initiating mesalamine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergic reactions you may have, whether to mesalamine itself, other aminosalicylates, salicylates, sulfasalazine, or any other allergens. This product may contain inactive components capable of triggering allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before utilizing this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach blockage (like pyloric stenosis).
- This medication might heighten your sensitivity to sunlight, especially if you have skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or eczema. Be cautious when exposed to sunlight. Refrain from using tanning booths and sunlamps, and ensure you use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Should you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness, promptly inform your doctor.
- This medication possesses similarities to aspirin. Children and adolescents below 18 years of age should refrain from taking aspirin or aspirin-related medications (such as salicylates) if they have chickenpox, the flu, an undiagnosed illness, or have recently received a vaccine. In these scenarios, the consumption of aspirin heightens the risk of a rare yet serious condition known as Reye’s syndrome.
- During pregnancy, employ this medication exclusively if its necessity is apparent. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have unfavorable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor prior to breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Salofalk is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Salofalk enteric-coated tablet:
- 500 mg
FAQ
Is Salofalk an immunosuppressant?
No, Salofalk is not an immunosuppressant. Instead, Salofalk belongs to a class of drugs called aminosalicylates.
How long does it take for Salofalk to work?
Salofalk starts working to reduce inflammation in your bowel right away. But it may take a few weeks before your symptoms improve.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-pentasa#cost
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/pentasa-dosage#fa-qs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mesalamine-rectal-route/description/drg-20068210
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/salofalk#google_vignette
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a688021.html
- https://www.drugs.com/sfx/salofalk-side-effects.html
