Mesalazine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Asacol, Mezavant, Pentasa, Salofalk

Drug group:

Drug for inflammatory bowel disease

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Mesalazine is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and sometimes Crohn’s disease
• It can relieve symptoms in an acute attack and can also be taken to prevent attacks
• In severe cases it is often combined with other drugs such as corticosteroids
• Enemas and suppositories are useful when the rectum and lower colon are affected

How does it work?

The active component in mesalazine is released in the large intestine, where it reduces inflammation of the mucosa.

How should it be used?

• Try stick to the same brand of mesalazine
• Do not take mesalazine if you are hypersensitive to salicylates such as aspirin
• Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Tablets/suppositories taken 3 x daily, enema used once daily at bedtime
• Acute attack 4–4g daily; maintenance dose 1.2–2.4g daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Full beneficial effects may only be felt in a few weeks, adverse effects may be noticed within a few days.  

How long will the effects last?

Up to 12 hours  
                     

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.   

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected but you may need regular blood tests for kidney function.                                                               

What are the possible side effects?

Mesalazine produces fewer side effects than older treatments like sulfasalazine.

The following have been reported:

• More common: Gastrointestinal problems (nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhoea)
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: worsening colitis, rash, fever, wheezing, spontaneous bruising/bleeding, sore throat, malaise

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, blood disorders, allergy to aspirin
• Other medicines: Lactulose, warfarin, azathioprine, mercaptopurine
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not recommended <15 years
• Over 60: Reduced dose needed if there is kidney impairment
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No special problems