Mesalamine (By Mouth)

Mesalamine (me-SAL-a-meen)

Treats bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Brand Name(s):

Asacol, Pentasa
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mesalamine or aspirin.

How to Use This Medicine:

Long Acting Capsule, Delayed Release Tablet, Coated Tablet, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
• If you see whole capsules or tablet parts in your bowel movements, tell your doctor.
• Do not stop taking mesalamine unless your doctor tells you to.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Bloody diarrhea
• Fever, chills, sore throat
• Severe stomach cramps, especially in the upper abdominal area
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unusual weakness or tiredness
• Yellow skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation or mild diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Joint or muscle pain
• Mild skin rash
• Nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach pain or upset
• Tiredness or trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.