Pentasa

Pentasa is a prescription drug approved by the FDA for ulcerative colitis or UC. It is a type of bowel disease that causes inflammation & ulcers in the lining of your colon and rectum. UC is a long-term condition where your symptoms can change over time. With active UC, you might have flare-ups with lots of symptoms. Other times, you might have remission, where your symptoms improve or disappear. Pentasa is suitable for adults, but the dosage may vary depending on the patient’s body needs and medical condition. Therefore, do not share your medicine with other individuals, even if they share the same problem.

Pentasa is used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis. It contains the active ingredient mesalamine, an anti-inflammatory agent that reduces inflammation in the colon and rectum. Pentasa is FDA-approved and available only by prescription, ensuring its efficacy and safety through attentive clinical testing.

This medication is available in various forms, including extended-release capsules and tablets, in strengths of 250 mg and 500 mg. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once or twice daily, with or without food. The medication is suitable for adults and works by restricting the production of substances in the lining of the colon that cause inflammation, thereby preventing symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.

While the medication is useful for treating UC, it can have some side effects, which may include headache, nausea, and mild abdominal pain. Therefore, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s advice regarding the medication’s use and report any severe or persistent side effects immediately. Before using Pentasa, make sure to inform your medical provider of any allergies or existing health conditions. In case you have missed its dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose, and avoid taking double doses. For detailed storage information, read the product’s label. Ensure that the medication is out of reach of children. Proper storage ensures the medication maintains its effectiveness throughout the treatment period.

Pentasa medication treats bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis). It is generally prescribed to:

• Induce Remission of UC: An active UC causes exacerbated inflammation and ulcers in the bowel, causing the associated symptoms to flare up, such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and rectal bleeding. To treat this flare-up, doctors usually prescribe Pentasa. This is known as inducing remission.
• Treat Mild to Moderate Active UC: When you have mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (UC) and it’s not controlled, you might experience flare-ups. During these times, your doctor might give you Pentasa to help reduce inflammation and ease your symptoms.

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Pentasa?

There are various brands of Mesalamine that are available in different forms, but Pentasa comes as an oral extended-release capsule:

• Capsule: 250 mg, and 500 mg

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Pentasa?

The dosage recommendations for Pentasa depend on several factors, including the type and severity of your medical condition and the form of medication you take. Generally, medical professionals prescribe a starting dose and gradually adjust the drug doses as needed. It is important to note that the dosage recommendations below are only for the average dose. So, if you have been prescribed a different dose, do not change it without consulting your medical practitioner.

Dosage for Ulcerative Colitis

The recommended dose for treating this condition is usually 4000 mg each day. For this dosage, you will be advised to take two to four capsules of Pentasa four times a day. And if you have been prescribed:

• 250 mg capsules; take four capsules per dose.
• 500 mg capsules; take two capsules per dose.

Remember, this is the starting and maintenance dosage. Your doctor may adjust these doses if the results are not satisfactory.

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

• Go through the medication guide or patient information leaflet carefully provided by your pharmacist or doctor. It will provide detailed administration steps. If you have any questions, ask your medical practitioner.
• Do not take more or less doses than what is prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions exactly to avoid serious complications.
• Take the capsules by mouth, usually two to four times, with or without food or as your healthcare provider prescribes.
• Swallow the medication as a whole with a full glass of water unless directed otherwise.
• Do not chew, split, crush, or break the capsule. Doing so will release the drug at once.
• If you are unable to swallow the medication, visit the nearest practitioner. They will suggest alternate options suited to your needs, or you can sprinkle the capsules’ contents on soft foods—for example, applesauce or yogurt.
• Once you have sprinkled the content on the food, swallow the mixture immediately without chewing it.
• If you have noticed the capsule’s content on your stool, do not panic, as it is normal. But if it happens frequently, reach out to a medical professional.
• Keep drinking water or any liquid to prevent kidney stones.
• Do not stop taking this medicine even if your condition improves.
• Take frequent blood tests to check your blood cells or kidney function.
• If your condition does not improve or worsens over time, contact a medical professional.

[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.]

The ulcerative disease causes inflammation in the lining of the colon and rectum, causing small sores, also known as ulcers. Doctors prescribe Pentasa to patients with such conditions. This anti-inflammatory medication contains mesalamine, also called 5-aminosalicylic acid, which belongs to the aminosalicylates class of drugs. So, when a patient takes a Pentasa capsule, aminosalicylates start working by reducing the inflammation in the colon and rectum’s lining. This action helps heal ulcers and manage flare-ups. As a result, this medication improves symptoms of UC.

Common Side Effects of Pentasa: This medication can cause various side effects, which are usually temporary. These reactions may last from a few days to weeks, depending on its severity. However, if these side effects take more than the mentioned time or get intense over time, reach out to a medical practitioner. Common side effects of Pentasa may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Upset stomach
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Hair loss
• Rectal bleeding
• Flatulence
• Rash
• Sore throat
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Flu symptoms

Serious Side Effects of Pentasa: Besides common reactions, it can also cause certain adverse reactions that can be life-threatening. If you notice any unusual reactions that seem serious, visit a professional practitioner to avoid serious complications. Serious side effects of Pentasa may include:

• Kidney issues. Its symptoms are:
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Swollen legs, feet, or ankles
  • Less urination
• Liver problems. Signs are:
  • Pain in the right side of the upper abdomen
  • Jaundice
• Serious skin reactions. Its signs are:
  • Cough
  • Skin peeling or blistering
  • Body ache
• Allergic reactions. Some of its signs are:
  • Itchiness
  • Flushing
  • Swelling under the skin, like eyelids, hands, feet, or lips
  • Trouble breathing
  • Swelling on the mouth, throat, or tongue
• Mesalamine-induced acute intolerance syndrome. Its symptoms may include:
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Skin rash
  • Abdominal pain
• Not feeling hungry
• Tiredness
• Dark urine
• Bloody diarrhea

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

Pentasa can cause severe side effects in certain patients, or it may not be an ideal treatment option for specific populations due to their medical conditions. So, if you are using Pentasa eye drops, you should remain cautious as it has several warnings, which are as follows:

• SCARs: Severe cutaneous adverse reactions or SCARs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or SJS and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been reported with mesalamine use. If you observe any signs of severe skin reactions such as a rash, sores in the mouth, or any other signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking this medication immediately and contact your doctor.
• Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome: Mesalamine can cause an acute intolerance syndrome, which might be mistaken for a flare-up of inflammatory bowel disease. This has been seen in about 3% of patients in clinical trials. Its symptoms include stomach cramps, sudden abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, severe headache, and rash. If you suspect you have this syndrome, stop taking the medication & seek medical advice promptly.
• Cardiovascular: Rarely, mesalamine has been associated with heart-related allergic reactions like myocarditis and pericarditis. So, doctors should cautiously prescribe this medication to patients who have conditions that make them more susceptible to these heart issues.
• Gastrointestinal: Pentasa’s effectiveness might be delayed in cases of organic or functional blockage in the upper digestive tract. Mesalamine has also been linked to an acute intolerance syndrome that can be confused with a flare-up of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Hematologic: Serious blood disorders, including myelosuppression, have been reported with mesalamine treatment. This risk increases when the drug is used in conjunction with 6-mercaptopurine or azathioprine. Blood tests are recommended before & during treatment as advised by your doctor. Blood tests should be conducted if you experience unexplained bleeding, bruising, purple spots, anemia, fever, or a sore throat. If a blood disorder is suspected, discontinue the medication immediately.

What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Pentasa?

Boxed warnings, also called black-boxed warnings, are among the most stringent guidelines issued by the FDA. These warnings alert doctors and patients about the harmful effects of a particular drug, which can be life-threatening if overlooked. Pentasa does not have any boxed warnings, meaning it is safe to use. However, its safety is based on the precautions you take. Therefore, if you are taking this drug, follow the instructions provided by your medical practitioner. If you have any concerns or noticed any unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult with an expert.

When considering treatment with Pentasa, patients should discuss every risk and benefit with their medical practitioner. Here are some of the precautions that you can take before using Pentasa for elevated intraocular pressure:

• Before starting your treatment with Pentasa, tell your doctor if you are allergic to the medication’s ingredients or other drugs, including aspirin, balsalazide, olsalazine, and sulfasalazine.
• This medication may cause kidney problems in patients and exacerbate the situation if you already have one. So, if you are considering using Pentasa, consult a medical professional. They will check your kidney functioning throughout the treatment. Do not forget to tell them about your medical history, especially of kidney problems.
• Patients using this medication have reported cases of kidney stones. If you have a medical history of kidney stones, tell your doctor beforehand. They will suggest alternate options that suit your condition. Additionally, if you have been advised to take Pentasa, drink plenty of water to prevent kidney stones.
• The usage of this medication may cause liver problems, or it may exacerbate the existing liver issues. If you have the same condition, talk to a medical practitioner or stop taking this medication. During your treatment with Pentasa, your healthcare provider will run some blood tests to examine the functioning of your liver.
• Pentasa contains Mesalamine as its active ingredient, which can cause heart problems in certain patients. Therefore, patients with a history of heart issues should talk to a healthcare practitioner before deciding.
• This medicine may cause skin reactions, making their skin extremely sensitive to the sun or ultraviolet light, thus increasing the risk of sunburn. If you have conditions like dermatitis or eczema, consult your medical professional before using this medication.
• If you are undergoing surgery or any medical procedure, inform your healthcare provider about the products you use. This includes every prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.
• It’s not clear whether this drug is safe for pregnant women or not. If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, talk to a medical practitioner for detailed information. Discuss every risk and benefit before using this medication.
• Pentasa may be safe for use in nursing mothers. Still, patients are advised to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decision. This will prevent you from serious complications.

It is contraindicated in patients With:

• Active or suspected hypersensitivity to the ingredients involved in the medication’s formulation or other drugs, including aminosalicylates and salicylates.
• Intestinal obstruction.
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Severe renal impairment.

Generally, it is advisable not to miss any doses of Pentasa, but if someone forgets, they can:

• Take the capsules as soon as possible or whenever you remember.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, you may omit the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule as your doctor instructed.
• Remember not to take double doses of your prescribed medication just for the sake of making up for the missed dose. This may cause adverse side effects.
• Use medication apps or set reminders on your phone to avoid skipping any doses.
• Take each dose at the same time every day to get the most benefit out of it.
• If you are still unsure about the missed doses, talk to an expert physician. They will guide you and suggest alternate options.

[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.]

While patients are educated enough to know the complications of overdose, there are times when they mistakenly take an excessive amount of Pentasa capsules. In such cases, patients are advised not to panic and instead look for unusual signs like:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Trouble breathing
• Ringing in the ears
• Confusion
• Headache
• Dizziness

If you are experiencing such overdose symptoms, visit the nearest clinic or get medical assistance immediately by calling 911.

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

• Store your extended-release capsules at room temperature of 15°C to 30°C.
• Make sure to keep the medication away from heat, moisture, or light.
• Do not store the capsules in damp areas like the bathroom or near the sink.
• Store your Pentasa capsules locked in a box and keep them somewhere safe, away from the reach and sight of your children.
• Place safety locks on the container to prevent your children or pets from consuming it. Many medications in the market are not child-resistant.
• Do not flush your medication down the toilet.
• Do not leave the medication on a window sill or in your car, as heat and dampness can damage the product.
• Discard the product when it is not in use.
• Ask a medical professional or pharmacist how to dispose of the medication properly without damaging the environment.
• Avoid keeping the medication under direct sunlight.
• Do not use a medication if its expiration date has passed. The expiration date is the last day of the month mentioned on the back of the prescription label or carton.
• You should dispose of the medications in such a way that children and animals cannot consume them, as it may cause accidental overdose and death if someone else consumes them.
• The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them in the medicine take-back program.

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

Drug interactions occur when one or more medications are taken simultaneously. These interactions can either raise the risk of developing side effects in certain patients or affect the functioning of one of the drugs. Either way, it results in adverse reactions. Therefore, patients need to be aware of the drugs that may interact with their Pentasa medication. Below are some of the drugs that can interact with Pentasa:

• Adefovir
• Botulism immune globulin
• Cidofovir
• Cytomegalovirus immune globulin
• Deferasirox
• Diatrizoate
• Immune globulin intravenous and subcutaneous
• Inotersen
• Iodamide
• Iodipamide
• Immune globulin intravenous
• Iodixanol
• Iohexol
• Iomeprol
• Iopamidol
• Iopromide
• Iothalamate
• Ioversol
• Ioxaglate
• Ioxilan
• Metrizamide
• Respiratory syncytial virus immune globulin
• Rho (d) immune globulin
• Sirolimus
• Tacrolimus
• Tenofovir
• Tenofovir alafenamide
• Bacitracin
• Bromfenac
• Colistimethate
• Cyclosporine
• Dicumarol
• Diflunisal
• Etodolac
• Exenatide
• Glipizide
• Glyburide
• Ibandronate
• Ibuprofen
• Ketoprofen
• Ketorolac
• Oxaliplatin
• Oxaprozin

What Are the Other Pentasa Interactions?

Besides drug interactions, Pentasa has disease interactions, which are as follows:

• Liver dysfunction
• Renal dysfunction

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

People usually take alternative drugs for many reasons. In some cases, the prescribed medication may not be an ideal option for them due to their medical conditions. On the other hand, they may not achieve the results they are aiming for. Therefore, you should talk to a medical professional before you start a particular treatment or if you want to change your medication. They may help you decide which medication is best suited for you. Some of the alternatives of Pentasa are as follows:

• Entyvio (vedolizumab)
• Humira (adalimumab)
• Sulfasalazine
• Azathioprine
• Xeljanz
• Stelara
• Golimumab (Simponi)
• Imuran
• Azasan
• Inflectra
• Remicade
• Renflexis
• Azulfidine (sulfasalazine)
• Uceris (budesonide)
• Cortef (hydrocortisone)
• Medrol (methylprednisolone)
• Rayos (prednisone)
• Prednisolone

[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.]

It is important to note that Pentasa’s cost is not the same everywhere. The actual price of these capsules depends on several factors, including your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacies you use. Pentasa, with its anti-inflammatory qualities, can be expensive for certain patients. Here, insurance coverage plays a significant role. You can buy your medication at affordable rates with an insurance coverage plan. However, not all drugs/medications are covered under the insurance plan. If you are residing in America and searching for affordable pharmacies to manage your medication’s cost, reach out to Polar Bear Meds. Here you can buy Pentasa online from Canada in the USA at discounted rates. Moreover, first-time buyers can use the Pentasa coupon code WELCOMEPB10 to receive a 10% discount on their first order.

AtPolarBearMeds.com, we assure you the most affordable price to buy Pentasa online from Canada. Rest easy knowing that your order will be dispatched from a reputable Licensed Canada Pharmacy Online, adhering to the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our discounted medications are shipped directly from Canada to your doorstep, ensuring a swift and secure delivery experience. To conveniently buy Pentasa online to treat ulcerative colitis at a substantial cost, call us at 1-888-779-2193 toll-free.

The content provided on the Polar Bear Meds website serves to increase knowledge about healthcare products and medical conditions and is strictly for informational purposes. It should not replace professional medical advice. We urge you to consult with a qualified healthcare professional prior to utilizing any prescription or over-the-counter medication. Our platform grants access to an extensive array of products, sourced internationally, including Canada. We collaborates with a licensed pharmacy partner in Canada and trusted dispensing pharmacies globally. All affiliated fulfillment centers are accredited by the regulatory authorities of their respective countries.