Pentasa (Mesalamine) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Pentasa

Ulcerative Colitis »

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammation of the large intestine (colon). The colon is the part of the digestive system where waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, ulcers and inflammation of the inner lining of the colon lead to symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Ulcerative colitis is closely related to another condition of inflammation of the intestines called Crohn's disease. Together, they are frequently referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's diseases are chronic conditions that can last years to decades. They affect approximately 500,000 to 2 million people In the United States. Men and women are affected equally. They most commonly begin during adolescence and early adulthood, but they also can begin during childhood and later in life.

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Read the Ulcerative Colitis article »

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Pentasa Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

MESALAMINE (5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID) CAPSULE - ORAL

(mess-AL-uh-meen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pentasa

USES: Mesalamine (also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid) is used to treat ulcerative colitis, a type of bowel disease. It does not cure ulcerative colitis, but it may decrease symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding caused by irritation/swelling of the colon/rectum. Mesalamine is an aminosalicylate anti-inflammatory drug. It is believed to work by blocking the production of certain natural chemicals that may cause pain and swelling.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used to treat Crohn's disease.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually four times daily or as directed by your doctor.

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not chew or crush the capsules. Doing so can interfere with release of the drug into the colon.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.