Uses

Used to treat and maintain remission of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, and to treat active Crohn's disease confined to the ileum and colon.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mesalazine, other salicylates, or any product excipient. Use with caution in severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Side effects

Common side effects include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Rarely, mesalazine can cause acute intolerance syndrome, hypersensitivity myocarditis, nephrotoxicity, and blood dyscrasias.

Warnings

Monitor renal function periodically during treatment. Discontinue immediately if acute intolerance reactions or signs of myocarditis or pericarditis occur. Use cautiously with other nephrotoxic drugs.

How it works

Mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid) acts locally in the gut mucosa to inhibit cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis and thereby decreasing mucosal inflammation.

Storage

Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.