Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Rectal mesalamine is prescribed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and ulceration in the colon and rectum lining, proctitis (inflammation in the rectum), and proctosigmoiditis (inflammation in the rectum and sigmoid colon). Belonging to a class of medications known as anti-inflammatory agents, rectal mesalamine operates by inhibiting the body’s production of specific substances that can trigger inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely when using this medication rectally, typically once daily at bedtime. The dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Stay hydrated during treatment with this medication unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Adequate fluid intake helps prevent kidney stones.
Before each use, visually examine the contents of the bottle. The contents should appear off-white to tan in color. While a slight darkening is normal, discard any enemas that turn dark brown.
For optimal effectiveness, have a bowel movement before using this medication. Shake the bottle well. Holding the bottle by the neck, remove the cover from the applicator tip. Lie on your left side with your right knee bent. Insert the tip of the bottle into the rectum, aiming toward the navel. Gently and steadily squeeze out the entire contents of the bottle. Withdraw the bottle. Maintain your position for 30 minutes. Discard the empty bottle. Strive to retain the medication in the rectum for 8 hours.
This medication may cause staining on surfaces it contacts, such as clothing, floors, and countertops.
Consistently use this medication to maximize its benefits. Establish a routine by using it at the same time each day.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- leg, back, or joint pain
- heartburn
- gas
- dizziness
- hemorrhoids
- acne
- pain in the rectum
- hair loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash, hives, itching, or peeling or blistering skin
- mouth sores or blisters
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, mouth, or throat
- fever or flu-like symptoms
- swollen glands
- red, itchy, irritated, or watery eyes
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- side or back pain
- decreased urination
- swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet
- difficult or painful urination, 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
- Before using mesalamine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other aminosalicylates (such as balsalazide, olsalazine), salicylates (such as aspirin, salsalate), sulfasalazine, or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients, like sulfites, which can provoke allergic reactions or other issues.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have asthma, kidney problems, liver disease, pancreas issues (pancreatitis), or inflammation of the sac around the heart (pericarditis).
- This medication may heighten sun sensitivity, particularly if you have skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or eczema.
- Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and utilize sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors. Notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or skin blistering/redness.
- Similar to aspirin, children and adolescents under 18 years old should avoid aspirin or aspirin-related medications (like salicylates) if they have chickenpox, flu, an undiagnosed illness, or have recently received a live virus vaccine (such as varicella vaccine) without consulting a doctor about Reye’s syndrome, a rare but severe illness.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Salofalk Enema is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Salofalk Enema enema kit:
- 4 g / 60 mL
FAQ
How quickly does Salofalk Enema work?
Salofalk Enema can start working within 3 to 21 days, but your treatment course will typically last anywhere between 3 and 6 weeks. Your healthcare provider will tell you how long you should use the medication depending on your symptoms and severity of your condition.
Does it hurt to insert Salofalk Enema in the rectum?
Salofalk Enema can sometimes cause pain or discomfort when you’re inserting the tip of the enema into your rectum. It can also cause pain, soreness, or burning in the rectal area for some people. This side effect isn’t too common.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/rowasa/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mesalamine-rectal-route/description/drg-20068210#:~:text=Mesalamine%20is%20used%20to%20treat,(inflammation%20of%20the%20rectum)
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/mesalamine-5-aminosalicylic-acid-suppository-rectal
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9866-7146/mesalamine-rectal/mesalamine-5-aminosalicylic-acid-enema-rectal/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a614021.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/mesalamine-rectal.html
