Uses

Sulphasalazine is used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, helping to reduce bowel inflammation. It is also used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to sulphasalazine, sulfonamides, or salicylates. Also contraindicated in patients with intestinal or urinary obstruction and in those with porphyria.

Side effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, and skin rash. It may also cause reversible oligospermia in men and, rarely, hepatotoxicity or blood dyscrasias.

Warnings

Regular monitoring of complete blood count and liver function tests is recommended during therapy. Use with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency, renal or hepatic impairment. Patients should maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystalluria.

How it works

Sulphasalazine is cleaved by colonic bacteria into sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). The 5-ASA component exerts local anti-inflammatory effects in the gut by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and modulating immune responses.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.