How The Drug Works
The exact mechanism of action of the 5-aminosalicyclic acid (5-ASA) agents is unknown. They appear to work topically, reducing inflammation of the colon by preventing the production of substances involved in the inflammatory process.
Uses
Balsalazide Disodium: To treat mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the colon or rectum).
Mesalamine: To treat mild to moderate inflammation of the colon or rectum (eg, ulcerative colitis) and to reduce chances of reoccurance (delayed-release tablets).
To treat active mild to moderate distal ulcerative colitis, proctosigmoiditis, or proctitis (rectal suppositories and suspension).
Olsalazine Sodium: To reduce the chances that ulcerative colitis will reoccur in patients who cannot take sulfasalazine.
Intolerance: Mesalamine can cause an intolerance syndrome characterized by cramping, acute stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, headÂache, and rash. Prompt withdrawal is required. Consult your doctor.
Worsening of Symptoms: Worsening of symptoms of colitis (thought to have been caused by mesalamine or sulfasalazine) has occurred.
Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.
Breastfeeding: Oral mesalamine appears in breast milk. It is not known if rectal mesalamine, balsalazide, or olsalazine appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.
Children: Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.
Sulfites: Some of these products contain sulfite preservatives that can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Check package label when available or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements with 5-ASA. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. Thiopurines (eg, mercaptopurine) and anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) interact with olsalazine.
Side Effects
Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many 5-ASA users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:
Digestive Tract: Diarrhea; constipation; frequent stools; indigestion; heartÂburn; bloating; gas; stomach pain or cramps; nausea; vomiting; belching; worsening of colitis; appetitie loss; rectal bleeding; mouth inflammation.
Nervous System: Dizziness; headache; tiredness; weakness; disorientation; sleeplessness; fatigue; drowsiness; depression; vertigo (feeling of whirling motion); Lightheadedness.
Other: Sweating; chills; hair loss; fever; flu-like symptoms; cough; muscle pain, cramps, or tension; general pain; painful urination; fever; leg, back, chest, joint, or rectal pain; hemorrhoids; sore throat; edema (fluid retention); general body discomfort; dry mouth; sore throat; congestion; runny nose; sinus inflammation; upper respiratory infection; painful menstruation; eye inflammation; hives; rash; itching; acne; increased bowel swelling; urinary tract infection.