Mesalazine (oral)

About mesalazine (oral)

Mesalazine (oral) works by reducing inflammation of the large intestine and small intestine, therefore reducing symptoms.

Before taking mesalazine (oral)

Before taking mesalazine (oral) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are suffering from a stomach ulcer.
• If you have had problems with clotting of your blood.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you are allergic to salicylates.

Your doctor will check your kidney function before you start your treatment and regularly thereafter.

How to take mesalazine (oral)

• Mesalazine tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed.
• You should not take indigestion remedies at the same time of day as enteric-coated mesalazine because they affect the enteric-coating.
• Granules should be placed on the tongue and washed down with orange juice or water, without chewing.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is best to stick to the same brand of mesalazine (oral).
• If you are taking mesalazine for a long time, it is important to keep regular appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked. Depending on your progress your doctor may decide to do some blood tests to check your blood count. Your kidney function will usually be checked every 3 months for the first year, every 6 months for the next four years, then once yearly.

Can mesalazine (oral) cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store mesalazine (oral)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines