1. Overview

Mesalamine is a prescription medication that is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It has anti-inflammatory effect and it sometimes is used with other medications (e.g., corticosteroids).

2. Uses of mesalamine suppository

• Treatment of acute attack of ulcerative colitis
• Ulcerative proctitis
• Maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis

Mesalazine (mesalamine) is an anti-inflammatory agent that reduces inflammation in colon.

Generally, rectal mesalamine is used to treat active distal ulcerative colitis and proctosigmoiditis. It is sold under these brand names: Asacol, Pentasa and Salofalk.

3. How to use this medication

Mesalazine rectal suppositories are available as:

• Pentasa: 1000mg
• Salofak: 1000g, 500mg
• Cansa: 1000mg (this contains saturated vegetable fatty acid esters)

Lie on your left side with lower leg extended and upper leg flexed forward toward your stomach. Insert the suppository into rectum after you remove the foil wrapper from it.

It is preferred to be used at bed time. Usually, the course of therapy for rectal dosage form is 3 to 6 weeks, however it can vary according to your doctor's instructions.

Store suppositories at a temperature below 25°C and protect them from direct light. In addition, freezing mesalamine suppositories should be avoided.

4. Special precautions

Before using this medication, you should consult your doctor if:

• You are allergic to Mesalamine or to any other drugs
• You have blood clotting abnormalities
• You have long-term liver diseases
• You have renal impairment
• You have pancreatitis

5. Side effects

Common side effects associated with rectal use of mesalamine include:

• Flatulence
• Headache
• Pain
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea

In addition, anal irritation is a rare side effect that may occur due to the use of mesalamine suppository.