Mesalamine Oral [ Asacol, Pentasa, Mesasal, Salofalk ]

Mesalamine is used for the treatment of mild to moderately severe colitis. The suppositories are limited to use in proctitis, the enemas to distal colitis (colitis involving only the part of the colon close to the rectum) or proctitis. Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum.

There are no adequate studies of mesalamine in pregnant women; however, studies in animals suggest no important effects on the fetus. Therefore, mesalamine may be used in pregnancy if the physician feels that it is necessary. It also should be noted that there is no effect of mesalamine on sperm count as there is with sulfasalazine (Azulfidine).

Mesalamine is excreted in small amounts in breast milk. No side effects have been reported in nursing infants whose mothers have taken mesalamine. Since the possibility of side effects always exists, physicians must weigh the potential risks of mesalamine on the infant against the benefits for the mother.

Mesalamine is usually well-tolerated. Adverse effects that have been reported in large studies include: headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness. None of these effects, however, were reported more frequently with mesalamine than with placebo. Infrequently, patients may be intolerant of mesalamine, experiencing cramping, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and sometimes fever or rash. In such cases, the medication is stopped. Mesalamine enemas contain sulfites and should be avoided in persons who are sensitive to sulfites.

Common Side Effects:

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

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