Mesalamine 

Mesalamine DR

Mesalamine, also known as 5-ASA or 5-aminosalicylic acid, is an FDA-approved anti-inflammatory medication used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease & ulcerative colitis. It functions by reducing inflammation in the colon, which helps manage and improve symptoms of IBD. It is available in different forms, with strengths ranging from 800 mg to 1.2 grams per tablet. It is typically taken orally by mouth with or without food. You can consult a licensed healthcare provider for personalized guidance and advice regarding dosage, usage, and storage. You can buy Mesalamine DR online from Canada from the convenience of your home.  

Product Overview

Mesalamine DR is an anti-inflammatory medication containing the active ingredient mesalamine. Mesalamine is typically used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis. It functions by reducing inflammation in the colon, thus helping to alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Available in various strengths, Mesalamine DR is typically taken in dosages prescribed by a healthcare provider, ranging from 800 mg to 1.2 grams per tablet. It is necessary to follow the prescribed dosage instructions strictly. Based on the specific product instructions, it is usually taken with or without food. Mesalamine DR is suitable for adults and children over a certain age, as determined by a healthcare provider. It works by directly targeting and reducing inflammation in the colon, which helps manage and improve symptoms of IBD.

Potential side effects of Mesalamine DR include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Patients should seek medical guidance if they experience severe or persistent side effects. It is important to inform the healthcare provider of any other medications being taken to avoid adverse interactions. In case of a missed dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. In the event of a Mesalamine overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Store Mesalamine DR at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Always follow the advice of a medical provider when using Mesalamine DR to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What Are the Uses of Mesalamine DR?

It is used to treat:

• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease 

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Mesalamine DR?

It is available in the following forms and strengths:

Form: Oral Tablets

Strength: 800 mg, 1200 mg 

Form: Oral Capsules

Strength: 400 mg 

Form: Rectal suppositories 

Strength: 1000 mg 

Form:  Rectal enemas 

Strength: 4 g/60 ml

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Mesalamine DR?

For the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis 

Oral Capsules

• Adults should take 800 mg thrice daily
• Children aged five years or more: Your doctor should determine the medication dosage based on body weight. The maximum dosage is 2400 mg daily, in divided doses. 
• Children less than five years of age: The Doctor should determine the usage and dosage.

Oral Tablets

• Adults should take 800 mg thrice daily for six weeks
• Children aged five years and above: Medication dosage is based on the body weight and should be determined by your doctor.
  • Weighing 54 kg-90 kg: 1200 mg in the morning and 1200 mg in the afternoon for six weeks. 
  • Weighing 33 kg- 54 kg: 1200 mg in the morning and 800 mg in the afternoon for six weeks.
  • Weighing 17 kg-33 kg: 800 mg in the morning & 400 mg in the afternoon for six weeks. 

For Prevention of Ulcerative Colitis

• Adults: 1600 mg daily, in divided dosage.
• Children: Medication dosage should be determined by your doctor. 

[Note: These recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Mesalamine DR? 

• Before using this medication, carefully read and follow the instructions for use given in the patient information leaflet and medication guide provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Ask a licensed healthcare professional if you do not understand any part of this leaflet. 
• Your doctor may monitor your kidney & liver functions carefully before you start taking this medication and thereafter on a regular basis.
• Use this medicine exactly as directed by your physician, usually once daily, with or without food. Do not take it more or less than prescribed, in large quantities, or more frequently. 
• Take this medication orally by mouth, usually once daily. 
• Drink plenty of water and other fluids while receiving treatment with this medication unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. This will help prevent kidney stones. 
• Swallow the tablets and capsules whole. Do not crush, break, chew, or open them. Doing so may keep the medication from being properly released into the colon. 
• The medication dosage is based on the condition being treated and the body’s response to treatment. For pediatric patients, the dosage is also based on their weight. 
• Continue using Mesalamine even if you feel well after a few days. You should not discontinue using this medication abruptly without consulting your physician, as it can cause undesirable side effects. 
• Use your medication regularly, and take it around the same time every day to help you remember. 
• Inform your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it worsens. 
• You may sometimes see partial or whole tablets or capsules in your stool after your body has absorbed this medication. If this occurs frequently, inform your doctor. You may not be absorbing enough of this medication.  

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Mesalamine DR Work?

While the exact mechanism of Mesalamine DR isn’t fully understood, it appears to work within the bowels to reduce inflammation. It may help regulate the inflammatory response from the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. By affecting these enzyme pathways, it could decrease the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Overall, mesalamine helps manage UC symptoms by reducing gut inflammation. 

Important Safety Information for Using Mesalamine DR

What Are the Side Effects of Mesalamine DR?

Common Side Effects of Mesalamine DR: Similar to other medications, Mesalamine DR may also cause certain side effects in people that are not serious and disappear within a few days or weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. If you have any queries or concerns regarding the side effects associated with this medication, consult your physician or healthcare provider, they will help you prevent and manage the side effects. Common side effects of Mesalamine are as follows:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Diarrhea
• Gas (flatulence)
• Constipation
• Mild rash

Mild Side Effects of Mesalamine DR: Mesalamine may also cause mild side effects in some patients. These effects are not severe and do not usually require medical assistance. However, you should report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor immediately and let them know at once if the symptoms persist or have become bothersome. The list below is not complete, and this medication may have other side effects. 

• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fever
• Muscle or joint pain
• Hair loss
• Acne
• Mild itching

Serious Side Effects of Mesalamine DR: In rare cases, mesalamine may cause serious side effects in some people. It is important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and the likelihood of experiencing serious side effects is generally low. However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious or persistent side effects, as these side effects may become fatal if not treated promptly. 

• Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Its symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/throat, severe rash, or hives.
• Kidney problems. It may cause decreased urine output, swelling in the legs/feet, and fatigue.
• Liver problems. Its symptoms may include yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, and abdominal pain.
• Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Pancreatitis, which further causes severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
• Pericarditis/Myocarditis causing chest pain, shortness of breath
• Worsening of colitis symptoms, which may include increased abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea
• Blood disorders include decreased white blood cell count or other blood abnormalities.

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Mesalamine DR? 

• This medication may cause hypersensitivity reactions in some people, including anaphylaxis. It should not be taken by patients with a known or suspected hypersensitivity to mesalamine, salicylates, aminosalicylates, or any of the inactive ingredients present in the medication. Discontinue taking the medication immediately and call your doctor if you experience signs and symptoms of a severe hypersensitivity reaction, including hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your throat, lips, face, or tongue.   
• Kidney problems have been reported in people taking this medication. Your healthcare provider will carefully monitor your kidney function before you start taking this medication and thereafter on a regular basis. This medication is not recommended for use in people with pre-existing kidney problems or who are also taking other medications that may affect kidney function. 
• This medication has also been linked with an acute intolerance syndrome that may be hard to differentiate from an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Inform your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen while using this medication, discontinue taking this medication, or if you suspect AIS. 
• This medication may not be suitable for use in patients with pre-existing liver disease. 
• This medication may cause blood disorders, and elderly patients using azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine are at an increased risk. Your physician will closely monitor you for these risks. 

What Are the Mesalamine DR Precautions?

• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have an allergy to it, other aminosalicylates, salicylates, or sulfasalazine, or if you have any other allergies. This product contains certain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Consult your medical provider for more information.
• Before using this medication, share your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have stomach blockage, kidney disease, or liver disease. 
• This medication may make you more sensitive to sunlight, especially if you have skin problems such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. You should limit your time in the sun and avoid sunlamps and tanning booths. Use sunscreen & wear protective clothing when you are outdoors. Inform your doctor immediately if you get sunburn or have redness or skin blisters. 
• If you plan to have surgery, including a dental procedure, tell your surgeon, dentist, or doctor about all the medications you are using, including all prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. 
• Mesalamine is similar to aspirin. Children and teenagers under 18 should not take aspirin or aspirin-related medications if they have flu, chicken pox, or any undiagnosed illness or have recently received a vaccine. In such cases, taking aspirin increases the risk of developing a rare but severe illness known as Reye’s syndrome. 

What Are the Contraindications of Mesalamine DR?

Mesalamine DR is contraindicated for use in patients who have/are:

• Hypersensitivity to 5-ASA, salicylates, or aminosalicylates. 
• Severe renal or hepatic impairment
• Urinary tract obstruction
• Existing gastric or duodenal ulcers
• Breastfeeding 
• Infants
• Children with chickenpox or flu-like symptoms 

What If You Missed a Dose of Mesalamine DR?

• If you have missed a dose of Mesalamine DR, you should take it as soon as you remember. 
• However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue taking your medication according to your regular dosing schedule. 
• Do not simultaneously take double or extra doses of the same medication to compensate for the missed dose. 
• You can set a reminder on your phone to prevent missing your doses. 

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Mesalamine DR?

Mesalamine overdose symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, tinnitus, headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and seizures. If you suspect an overdose of the medication, immediately seek medical attention. If someone is experiencing severe overdose symptoms such as passing out, difficulty breathing, and seizures, you should contact your doctor, 911, or poison control helpline. You can also head to the nearest emergency room. 

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Mesalamine DR?

• You should keep Mesalamine in its original container tightly closed at room temperature between 20-25°C or 68-77°F, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and heat. 
• Do not keep it in the bathroom or near the sink.
• Keep all medications, including Mesalamine, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children and pets. 
• Don’t keep medications that are outdated or no longer needed. Discard them safely. 
• You should not dispose of unwanted medications by pouring them into the drain, flushing them down the toilet, or throwing them into the household garbage bin.
• You should eliminate unwanted medications in such a way that prevents children, animals, and others from consuming them.
• To learn more about how to dispose of unwanted medications, consult your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or local waste disposal company. 

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Mesalamine DR?

Certain medications may interact with Mesalamine and affect how it works or increase your risk of severe side effects. Before using this medicine, inform your medical provider about all the medicines you are taking currently or plan to take, including all prescription, non-prescription, and over-the-counter drugs, herbal, or vitamin supplements. This information will help them identify and prevent potential drug interactions. To prevent and manage drug interactions, your doctor may change your dosage of one or both medications or advise you to take another medication. This list is not complete, and there may be other drug interactions with Mesalamine.

• Sodium Salicylate
• Oxaprozin
• Phenyl Salicylate
• Diflunisal
• Balsalazide
• Varicella Virus Vaccine, Live
• Fenoprofen
• Methotrexate
• Tolmetin
• Nabumetone
• Lumiracoxib
• Flurbiprofen
• Proquazone
• Floctafenine
• Rofecoxib
• Felbinac
• Lornoxicam
• Meclofenamate
• Loxoprofen
• Droxicam
• Aceclofenac
• Dipyrone
• Proglumetacin
• Piroxicam
• Nimesulide
• Piketoprofen
• Tiaprofenic Acid
• Etofenamate
• Celecoxib
• Fepradinol
• Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate
• Salicylic Acid
• Salsalate
• Etoricoxib
• Etodolac
• Tamarind
• Flufenamic Acid
• Phenylbutazone
• Propyphenazone
• Dexibuprofen
• Mefenamic Acid
• Mercaptopurine
• Nimesulide Beta Cyclodextrin
• Salicylamide
• Tenoxicam
• Nepafenac
• Tolfenamic Acid
• Ibuprofen
• Levoketoconazole
• Clonixin
• Trolamine Salicylate
• Bismuth Subsalicylate
• Warfarin
• Niflumic Acid
• Valdecoxib
• Sulindac
• Magnesium Salicylate
• Bromfenac
• Feprazone
• Indomethacin
• Meloxicam
• Furosemide
• Parecoxib
• Diclofenac
• Naproxen
• Olsalazine
• Acemetacin
• Oxyphenbutazone
• Morniflumate
• Bufexamac
• Amtolmetin Guacil
• Choline Salicylate
• Ketoprofen
• Dexketoprofen
• Sulfasalazine

What Are the Other Mesalamine DR Interactions?

You should share your complete medical history with your doctor before starting to take this medication. This information helps your doctor or healthcare make informed decisions about the suitability of the prescription, necessary dose adjustments, or additional monitoring requirements. Mesalamine DR can interact with certain disease states or conditions.  

• Renal or hepatic impairment 
• Pancreatitis 
• Hypersensitivity reactions to 5-ASA, salicylates, or aminosalicylates 
• Pyloric stenosis
• Pre-existing skin conditions
• Blood disorders
• Gastrointestinal obstruction
• Salicylate sensitivity 

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Mesalamine DR. Make sure to tell your doctor any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Mesalamine DR Alternatives?

People look for alternative medications to mesalamine when it does not suit them or they do not get the desired results from it. There are many effective alternative medicines available on the market for mesalamine DR. You should not change your medication or start a new one without consulting your doctor, as it may cause unwanted side effects. Discuss with them, and they will help you determine the best medication for you based on your condition and needs. Given below is a list of alternative medicines for mesalamine DR.

• Colazal (balsalazide)
• Azulfidine (sulfasalazine)
• Canasa (mesalamine)
• Rayos (prednisone)
• Uceris (budesonide)
• Cortef (hydrocortisone)
• Medrol (methylprednisolone)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Mesalamine DR Cost & Coupons

The cost of Mesalamine DR can vary widely based on factors like health insurance coverage and pharmacy pricing. Many Americans face high out-of-pocket expenses for this medication, as it is often not covered by health insurance for weight loss purposes. To help manage these costs, some turn to services like Polar Bear Meds, which offer the option to purchase Mesalamine DR from Canada at a lower price. Customers can also benefit from the Mesalamine DR coupon code WELCOMEPB10 for a 10% discount on their first order, making it more affordable for those in need of this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the brand name for Mesalamine DR 1.2 gm?

Mesalamine DR 1.2 gm is commonly marketed under the brand name Lialda. This formulation is designed for delayed release to treat inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis. Lialda targets inflammation directly in the colon, which helps manage symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding. It is essential to follow the recommended medication dosage & instructions a healthcare provider provides to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and safety.

When is the best time to take Mesalamine DR?

The best time to take Mesalamine DR varies depending on individual needs & the specific product instructions. Generally, it is taken once daily, either in the morning or the evening, with or without food. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding timing and dosage is crucial to maximize the medication’s benefits. Consistency in taking the medication simultaneously daily can help improve its efficacy and ensure better management of inflammatory bowel disease symptoms.

Can Mesalamine be taken long-term?

Yes, mesalamine can be taken long-term to manage chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis. Long-term use is often necessary to maintain remission and prevent flare-ups of the disease. Regular monitoring by a medical provider is crucial to manage any potential side effects & adjust the dosage as needed. Patients should stick to their prescribed regimen and consult their healthcare provider regularly to ensure the medication continues to be effective and safe over the long term.

How do you take Mesalamine 1.2 gm tablets?

Mesalamine 1.2 gm tablets should be taken exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. Typically, these tablets are taken once daily with a full glass of water. It is important to swallow the tablets whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking them, as this ensures the medication is properly released into the colon. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the timing and dosage, and maintain consistent use to effectively manage symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

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