Mesalamine

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• This medicine is available for oral use in the form of extended-release tablets, delayed-release tablets, and capsules. It is also available for rectal administration in the form of suppositories, enemas, and rectal foams.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children who are diagnosed with inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease affecting the ileum and colon.

Contraindications

• Mesalamine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to salicylates or aminosalicylates. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease (glomerular filtration rate less than 30 mL/min).

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with immunosuppressants (like azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine), anticoagulants (like warfarin), and antacids (like aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose might lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms like intense abdominal pain or bloody diarrhoea. If suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For headaches, rest and drink plenty of fluids.

• If you are feeling nauseous or experiencing vomiting, try eating simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food.

• If you have diarrhoea, drink lots of fluids to replace the lost water.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Mesalamine does not typically affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or severe abdominal discomfort, it might be wise to avoid engaging in such activities until you feel better.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Mesalamine is generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B) but should be used under medical supervision. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; therefore, it is important to consult your doctor before use if you are breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with mild to moderate liver dysfunction should use this medicine with caution. Regular monitoring of liver function may be advised by your doctor.

• Caution is also advised if there is a history of blood disorders as Mesalamine can affect blood cell counts.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining a balanced diet low in dairy and high-fibre foods can help manage symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases.

• Limit foods that can increase inflammation, such as processed foods and foods high in sugar.

• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms associated with gastrointestinal discomfort.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions