Pentasa (Mesalazine)

Pentasa (Mesalazine), an anti-inflammatory 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), is predominately prescribed as treatment for ulcerative colitis (inflamed digestive tract), mild-moderate Crohn`s disease, and other inflammatory bowel conditions. It can also help to maintain distal ulcerative colitis in remission. This medication also contains added antioxidant properties, and numerous other health benefits for patients suffering from conditions such as those listed above.

Dosage and AdministrationAlways use Pentasa (Mesalazine) as directed by your physician. Never self-medicate or adjust your dose unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional. Typically most adults will be prescribed 4 to 16 tablets per day depending on their condition. Dosing should be spread out throughout the day.

Keep all appointments you have with your physician as you should be closely monitored whilst on this medicine and your dose may need to be adjusted from time to time. This drug is a long term treatment and needs to be taken consistently according to your prescription. It will often take 3 or more weeks before patients begin to notice the effects of the medication.

Side effectsPentasa (Mesalazine) is usually well tolerated and and any side effects are short-term and mild. The most commonly reported are listed below.

• Headaches
• Skin rashes, blisters, or peeling
• Itchiness
• Fever
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Upset stomach, or abdominal pains
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Inflammation of joints
• Changes in vision or hearing
• Unusual numbness

More uncommon and serious side effects include those listed below. Inform your physician immediately if you experience any of these effects.

• Renal failure
• Hepatitis
• Pancreatitis
• Myocarditis
• Aplastic anaemia
• Neutopenia
• Pneumonia
• Nephritic syndrome
• Renal failure
• Hepatitis
• An allergic reaction (i.e asthma attack, trouble breathing, swelling, tight chest, hives etc)

PrecautionsDo not use Pentasa (Mesalazine) if you have any kind of renal impairment, untreated peptic ulcer disease, or any allergies.

Do not consume alcohol whilst using this medicine. Doing can easily cause stomach bleeding.

Inform your physician before using this medicine if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, asthmatic, have any kidney-related disease, or if you are taking any other form of medication (including supplements and vitamins).