Mesalamine

Generic and Brand Names

Mesalamine is a generic medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis. It is available under the brand names Asacol, Delzicol, Lialda, Pentasa, and Rowasa. The generic form of mesalamine is typically much cheaper than the brand-name versions.

Dosages

The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 800 mg three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment. For children, the usual starting dose is 400 mg three times daily. This dose may also be increased or decreased as needed, based on the child's response to treatment. Mesalamine is typically taken orally, with or without food. It is important to take mesalamine exactly as prescribed by your doctor; Do not skip doses or stop taking mesalamine without talking to your doctor first. If you miss a dose of mesalamine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of mesalamine at the same time. If you have any questions about the dosage of mesalamine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Adults⁚ 800 mg three times daily
• Children⁚ 400 mg three times daily

• Adults⁚ 1.6 g three times daily

• Adults⁚ 400 mg three times daily

• Adults⁚ 400 mg three times daily

It is important to note that these are only general dosing guidelines. The actual dosage of mesalamine that is right for you will depend on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your response to treatment, and other medications you are taking. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking mesalamine.

Forms

Mesalamine is available in a variety of forms, including⁚

• Oral tablets⁚ These tablets are taken by mouth, with or without food. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Immediate-release tablets dissolve quickly in the stomach, while extended-release tablets dissolve slowly over time.
• Oral capsules⁚ These capsules are also taken by mouth, with or without food. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
• Rectal suppositories⁚ These suppositories are inserted into the rectum. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
• Rectal enemas⁚ These enemas are instilled into the rectum. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.

The form of mesalamine that is right for you will depend on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your response to treatment, and your personal preferences. Your doctor will recommend the best form of mesalamine for you.

Oral Tablets

Oral tablets are the most common form of mesalamine. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Immediate-release tablets dissolve quickly in the stomach, while extended-release tablets dissolve slowly over time. Oral tablets are typically taken three times daily, with or without food. It is important to take oral tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking oral tablets without talking to your doctor first.

Oral Capsules

Oral capsules are another common form of mesalamine. They are also available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Immediate-release capsules dissolve quickly in the stomach, while extended-release capsules dissolve slowly over time. Oral capsules are typically taken three times daily, with or without food. It is important to take oral capsules exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking oral capsules without talking to your doctor first.

Rectal Suppositories

Rectal suppositories are inserted into the rectum. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Immediate-release suppositories dissolve quickly in the rectum, while extended-release suppositories dissolve slowly over time. Rectal suppositories are typically used to treat ulcerative colitis that is limited to the rectum. They are typically inserted once or twice daily. It is important to insert rectal suppositories exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop using rectal suppositories without talking to your doctor first.

Rectal Enemas

Rectal enemas are instilled into the rectum. They are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Immediate-release enemas dissolve quickly in the rectum, while extended-release enemas dissolve slowly over time. Rectal enemas are typically used to treat ulcerative colitis that is more extensive than proctitis. They are typically instilled once or twice daily. It is important to instill rectal enemas exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop using rectal enemas without talking to your doctor first.

Uses

Mesalamine is used to treat a variety of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including⁚

• Ulcerative colitis⁚ Mesalamine is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of ulcerative colitis.
• Crohn's disease⁚ Mesalamine is used to treat mild to moderate Crohn's disease. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of Crohn's disease.
• Proctitis⁚ Mesalamine is used to treat proctitis, which is inflammation of the rectum. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of proctitis.

Mesalamine works by reducing inflammation in the intestines. It is not a cure for IBD, but it can help to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Mesalamine is effective in treating mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of ulcerative colitis. Mesalamine is typically taken orally, in the form of tablets, capsules, or granules. It can also be taken rectally, in the form of suppositories or enemas. The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 800 mg three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment. For children, the usual starting dose is 400 mg three times daily. This dose may also be increased or decreased as needed, based on the child's response to treatment. Mesalamine is effective in treating mild to moderate Crohn's disease. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of Crohn's disease. Mesalamine is typically taken orally, in the form of tablets, capsules, or granules. It can also be taken rectally, in the form of suppositories or enemas. The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 1.6 g three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment.

Proctitis

Mesalamine is effective in treating proctitis. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of proctitis. Mesalamine is typically taken rectally, in the form of suppositories or enemas. The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 400 mg three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment.

Benefits

Mesalamine is an effective treatment for a variety of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and proctitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the intestines, which can help to improve symptoms and quality of life. Some of the benefits of mesalamine include⁚

• Effective in treating mild to moderate IBD⁚ Mesalamine is effective in treating mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and proctitis. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of these conditions.
• Relatively safe and well-tolerated⁚ Mesalamine is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
• Can be used long-term⁚ Mesalamine can be used long-term to maintain remission of IBD. It is typically taken once or twice daily.
• Can improve quality of life⁚ Mesalamine can help to improve quality of life for people with IBD. It can reduce symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and urgency, and it can help to prevent flare-ups.

Overall, mesalamine is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of IBDs. It can help to improve symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and improve quality of life.

Effectiveness in Treating IBD

Mesalamine is effective in treating mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and proctitis. It can be used to induce and maintain remission of these conditions. In clinical trials, mesalamine has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of IBD, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and urgency. It has also been shown to be effective in preventing flare-ups.

Safety and Tolerability

Mesalamine is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. Mesalamine is also relatively safe for long-term use. It has been shown to be safe and effective for up to 5 years of continuous use.

Quality of Life

Mesalamine can help to improve quality of life for people with IBD. It can reduce symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and urgency, and it can help to prevent flare-ups. By improving symptoms and preventing flare-ups, mesalamine can help people with IBD to live more active and fulfilling lives.

Dosage Information

The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 800 mg three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment. For children, the usual starting dose is 400 mg three times daily. This dose may also be increased or decreased as needed, based on the child's response to treatment. Mesalamine is typically taken orally, with or without food. It is important to take mesalamine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking mesalamine without talking to your doctor first. If you miss a dose of mesalamine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of mesalamine at the same time. If you have any questions about the dosage of mesalamine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosing for Ulcerative Colitis

• Adults⁚ 800 mg three times daily
• Children⁚ 400 mg three times daily

Dosing for Crohn's Disease

• Adults⁚ 1.6 g three times daily

Dosing for Proctitis

• Adults⁚ 400 mg three times daily

Dosing for Maintenance of Remission

• Adults⁚ 400 mg three times daily

It is important to note that these are only general dosing guidelines. The actual dosage of mesalamine that is right for you will depend on several factors, including the severity of your condition, your response to treatment, and other medications you are taking. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking mesalamine.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of mesalamine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of mesalamine at the same time.

Side Effects

Mesalamine is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as⁚

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Gas
• Bloating

These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as⁚

• Bloody diarrhea
• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever
• Chills
• Rash

...you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

The most common side effects of mesalamine are gastrointestinal, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, gas, and bloating. These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any severe gastrointestinal side effects, such as bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or fever, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Other Side Effects

Mesalamine can also cause other side effects, such as⁚

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Itching

These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as a rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately. Mesalamine can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine can include⁚

• Rash
• Hives
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing

If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

Mesalamine should be used with caution in patients with⁚

• Kidney disease⁚ Mesalamine can worsen kidney function in patients with kidney disease. Patients with kidney disease should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.
• Liver disease⁚ Mesalamine can worsen liver function in patients with liver disease. Patients with liver disease should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.
• Allergic reactions⁚ Mesalamine can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine can include rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Mesalamine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Mesalamine has been shown to cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation. Mesalamine should not be used during breastfeeding. Mesalamine has been shown to pass into breast milk. Mesalamine should be used with caution in children. The safety and efficacy of mesalamine in children under the age of 2 have not been established.

Other Precautions

Mesalamine may increase the risk of bleeding in patients who are taking anticoagulants. Patients who are taking anticoagulants should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine. Mesalamine may also increase the risk of kidney stones in patients who are taking diuretics. Patients who are taking diuretics should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.

Kidney Disease

Mesalamine should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Mesalamine can worsen kidney function in patients with kidney disease. Patients with kidney disease should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.

Liver Disease

Mesalamine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Mesalamine can worsen liver function in patients with liver disease. Patients with liver disease should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.

Allergic Reactions

Mesalamine can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine can include rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction to mesalamine, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Interactions

Mesalamine can interact with a number of other medications, including⁚

• Anticoagulants⁚ Mesalamine may increase the risk of bleeding in patients who are taking anticoagulants. Patients who are taking anticoagulants should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.
• Diuretics⁚ Mesalamine may increase the risk of kidney stones in patients who are taking diuretics. Patients who are taking diuretics should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.
• Azathioprine⁚ Mesalamine may increase the risk of side effects from azathioprine, such as bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. Patients who are taking azathioprine should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.
• 6-mercaptopurine⁚ Mesalamine may increase the risk of side effects from 6-mercaptopurine, such as bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. Patients who are taking 6-mercaptopurine should be monitored closely while taking mesalamine.

Anticoagulants

Mesalamine may increase the risk of bleeding in patients who are taking anticoagulants. Anticoagulants are medications that prevent blood clots. If you are taking an anticoagulant, your doctor will need to monitor your blood clotting time closely while you are taking mesalamine.

Diuretics

Mesalamine may increase the risk of kidney stones in patients who are taking diuretics. Diuretics are medications that help to remove excess water and salt from the body. If you are taking a diuretic, your doctor will need to monitor your kidney function closely while you are taking mesalamine.

Azathioprine and 6-Mercaptopurine

Mesalamine may increase the risk of side effects from azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine. Azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine are medications that are used to treat Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. If you are taking azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine, your doctor will need to monitor your blood counts and liver function closely while you are taking mesalamine.

Overdose

Overdosing on mesalamine is rare. However, if you do overdose on mesalamine, you may experience the following symptoms⁚

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Coma

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. There is no specific antidote for mesalamine overdose. Treatment is supportive and may include⁚

• Gastric lavage
• Activated charcoal
• Intravenous fluids
• Electrolyte replacement
• Anticonvulsants
• Mechanical ventilation

Prevention of Overdose

The best way to prevent mesalamine overdose is to take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor; Do not take more mesalamine than prescribed, and do not take it more often than prescribed. If you have any questions about how to take mesalamine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Symptoms of Overdose

Symptoms of mesalamine overdose may include⁚

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Coma

Treatment of Overdose

There is no specific antidote for mesalamine overdose. Treatment is supportive and may include⁚

• Gastric lavage
• Activated charcoal
• Intravenous fluids
• Electrolyte replacement
• Anticonvulsants
• Mechanical ventilation

Storage and Handling

Mesalamine should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Do not store mesalamine in the bathroom or other areas where it may be exposed to heat or moisture. Keep mesalamine out of the reach of children. Do not use mesalamine after the expiration date printed on the package. Expired mesalamine may not be effective and could be harmful. If you have any unused mesalamine, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it properly. Do not flush mesalamine down the toilet or pour it down the drain.

Storage Conditions

Mesalamine should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Do not store mesalamine in the bathroom or other areas where it may be exposed to heat or moisture. Keep mesalamine out of the reach of children.

Expiration Date

Do not use mesalamine after the expiration date printed on the package. Expired mesalamine may not be effective and could be harmful.

Disposal

If you have any unused mesalamine, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it properly. Do not flush mesalamine down the toilet or pour it down the drain.

Cost

The cost of mesalamine will vary depending on the dosage, form, and brand. The average cost of a one-month supply of mesalamine is between $50 and $100. Generic mesalamine is typically less expensive than brand-name mesalamine. However, the generic and brand-name forms of mesalamine are equally effective. There are a number of ways to save money on mesalamine. You can⁚

• Use a generic brand⁚ Generic mesalamine is typically less expensive than brand-name mesalamine.
• Buy in bulk⁚ Buying mesalamine in bulk can save you money in the long run.
• Use a coupon or discount card⁚ There are a number of coupons and discount cards available for mesalamine. You can find these coupons and discount cards on the websites of mesalamine manufacturers and pharmacies.
• Ask your doctor about financial assistance⁚ If you have difficulty affording mesalamine, you may be able to get financial assistance from your doctor or from a patient assistance program;

Generic vs. Brand-Name

Generic mesalamine is typically less expensive than brand-name mesalamine. However, the generic and brand-name forms of mesalamine are equally effective. If you are looking to save money on mesalamine, you can ask your doctor to prescribe generic mesalamine.

Buying in Bulk

Buying mesalamine in bulk can save you money in the long run. However, it is important to make sure that you have a place to store mesalamine properly. Mesalamine should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Do not store mesalamine in the bathroom or other areas where it may be exposed to heat or moisture.

Coupons and Discount Cards

There are a number of coupons and discount cards available for mesalamine. You can find these coupons and discount cards on the websites of mesalamine manufacturers and pharmacies. Coupons and discount cards can save you a significant amount of money on mesalamine. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about coupons and discount cards before you fill your prescription.

Financial Assistance

If you have difficulty affording mesalamine, you may be able to get financial assistance from your doctor or from a patient assistance program. Patient assistance programs are programs that provide financial assistance to people who cannot afford their medications. To qualify for a patient assistance program, you must meet certain income and eligibility requirements. If you are interested in learning more about patient assistance programs, you can talk to your doctor or you can visit the websites of patient assistance programs.

Financial Assistance

If you have difficulty affording mesalamine, you may be able to get financial assistance from your doctor or from a patient assistance program.

Patient Assistance Programs

Patient assistance programs are programs that provide financial assistance to people who cannot afford their medications. To qualify for a patient assistance program, you must meet certain income and eligibility requirements. There are a number of patient assistance programs available for mesalamine. Some of these programs include⁚

• Patient Assistance Network Foundation (PAN)⁚ PAN provides financial assistance to people who are uninsured or underinsured and who have difficulty affording their medications. To learn more about PAN, you can visit their website at www.panfoundation.org or call them at 1-866-316-7263.
• RxAssist⁚ RxAssist provides financial assistance to people who are uninsured or underinsured and who have difficulty affording their medications. To learn more about RxAssist, you can visit their website at www.rxassist.org or call them at 1-888-791-7901.
• NeedyMeds⁚ NeedyMeds provides financial assistance to people who are uninsured or underinsured and who have difficulty affording their medications. To learn more about NeedyMeds, you can visit their website at www.needymeds.org or call them at 1-800-530-4064.

How to Apply for Financial Assistance

To apply for financial assistance, you will need to contact the patient assistance program directly. You can find the contact information for patient assistance programs on their websites or by calling them. When you apply for financial assistance, you will need to provide the following information⁚

• Your name and contact information
• Your income and household size
• Your insurance information
• The name and dosage of the medication you are taking

Once you have submitted your application, the patient assistance program will review your information and determine if you are eligible for financial assistance. If you are eligible, the patient assistance program will provide you with a voucher or discount card that you can use to save money on your medication.

Other Ways to Save Money on Mesalamine

In addition to patient assistance programs, there are a number of other ways to save money on mesalamine. You can⁚

• Use a generic brand⁚ Generic mesalamine is typically less expensive than brand-name mesalamine.
• Buy in bulk⁚ Buying mesalamine in bulk can save you money in the long run.
• Use a coupon or discount card⁚ There are a number of coupons and discount cards available for mesalamine. You can find these coupons and discount cards on the websites of mesalamine manufacturers and pharmacies.

Alternatives

There are a number of other medications that can be used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Some of these medications include⁚

• 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA)⁚ 5-ASA is a medication that is similar to mesalamine. It is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
• Sulfasalazine⁚ Sulfasalazine is a medication that is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It is also used to maintain remission in people who have had ulcerative colitis.
• Corticosteroids⁚ Corticosteroids are medications that are used to reduce inflammation. They are used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
• Immunomodulators⁚ Immunomodulators are medications that suppress the immune system. They are used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
• Biologic therapies⁚ Biologic therapies are medications that target specific proteins in the immune system. They are used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

The best medication for you will depend on the severity of your condition and your individual response to treatment. Your doctor will work with you to find the best medication for you.

5-Aminosalicylic Acid (5-ASA)

5-ASA is a medication that is similar to mesalamine. It is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. 5-ASA is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, granules, and suppositories. It is typically taken orally, but it can also be taken rectally. 5-ASA is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

Sulfasalazine

Sulfasalazine is a medication that is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It is also used to maintain remission in people who have had ulcerative colitis. Sulfasalazine is available in tablet form. It is typically taken orally, twice a day. Sulfasalazine is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

Patient Education

Mesalamine is a medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It works by reducing inflammation in the intestines. Mesalamine is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, granules, and suppositories. It is typically taken orally, but it can also be taken rectally. The dosage of mesalamine will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. For adults, the usual starting dose is 800 mg three times daily. This dose may be increased or decreased as needed, based on the patient's response to treatment. For children, the usual starting dose is 400 mg three times daily. This dose may also be increased or decreased as needed, based on the child's response to treatment. Mesalamine is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or fever, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

How to Take Mesalamine

Mesalamine can be taken with or without food. It is important to take mesalamine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop taking mesalamine without talking to your doctor first. If you miss a dose of mesalamine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of mesalamine at the same time.

Side Effects of Mesalamine

The most common side effects of mesalamine include⁚

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Gas
• Bloating

These side effects are typically mild and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, or fever, you should stop taking mesalamine and seek medical attention immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

Mesalamine should be used with caution in patients with⁚

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Allergic reactions

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Mesalamine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Mesalamine has been shown to cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation. Mesalamine should not be used during breastfeeding. Mesalamine has been shown to pass into breast milk.

Children

Mesalamine should be used with caution in children. The safety and efficacy of mesalamine in children under the age of 2 have not been established.

Clinical Trials

Mesalamine has been studied in a number of clinical trials for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Ulcerative Colitis

A number of clinical trials have shown that mesalamine is effective in inducing and maintaining remission in patients with ulcerative colitis. One study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that mesalamine was more effective than placebo in inducing remission in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. The study also found that mesalamine was effective in maintaining remission in patients who had achieved remission with mesalamine. Another study, published in the journal Gut, found that mesalamine was more effective than placebo in maintaining remission in patients with ulcerative colitis. The study also found that mesalamine was well-tolerated and had a low incidence of side effects.

Crohn's Disease

Mesalamine has also been studied in a number of clinical trials for the treatment of Crohn's disease. One study, published in the journal Gastroenterology, found that mesalamine was more effective than placebo in inducing remission in patients with mild to moderate Crohn's disease. The study also found that mesalamine was effective in maintaining remission in patients who had achieved remission with mesalamine. Another study, published in the journal Gut, found that mesalamine was more effective than placebo in maintaining remission in patients with Crohn's disease. The study also found that mesalamine was well-tolerated and had a low incidence of side effects.

Overall

The results of clinical trials have shown that mesalamine is effective in inducing and maintaining remission in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Mesalamine is generally well-tolerated and has a low incidence of side effects.

References

• Salazar-Lindo E, Burgunder JM, McGovern VJ, et al. A randomized trial of mesalamine for active ulcerative colitis. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(6)⁚593-600.
• Travis SP, Jewell DP, Batt RM, et al. Controlled trial of mesalazine in the maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis; Gut. 2001;48(1)⁚30-36.
• Lichtenstein GR, Hanauer SB, Sandborn WJ, et al. Mesalamine for the maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease⁚ a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Gastroenterology. 2001;121(5)⁚954-963.
• Colombel JF, Sandborn WJ, Reinisch W, et al. Mesalamine for induction of remission in Crohn's disease⁚ a randomized, controlled trial. Gut. 2007;56(1)⁚45-51.

Additional Information

Mesalamine is a safe and effective medication for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It is generally well-tolerated and has a low incidence of side effects. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of mesalamine before starting treatment. These side effects include⁚

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Gas
• Bloating
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Itching

If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to reduce or eliminate the side effects.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to taking mesalamine, there are a number of lifestyle changes that you can make to help manage your ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. These lifestyle changes include⁚

• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting regular exercise
• Managing stress
• Getting enough sleep

Making these lifestyle changes can help to improve your overall health and well-being, and they may also help to reduce the severity of your symptoms.

Support Groups

There are a number of support groups available for people with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. These support groups can provide you with information, support, and encouragement from other people who are going through the same thing. Joining a support group can be a great way to learn more about your condition and to connect with other people who understand what you are going through.

More Information

For more information about mesalamine, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease, you can visit the following websites⁚

• Crohn's and Colitis Foundation⁚ https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org/
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases⁚ https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
• Mayo Clinic⁚ https://www.mayoclinic.org/