Women's Health

Mesalamine Extended Release Oral Capsule (MESALAMINE (5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID) EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL)

For inflammatory bowel disease.

Brand Name(s): Pentasa

Generic Name: Mesalamine

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Avoid chewing the medicine.

If unable to swallow the capsule, open the capsule and sprinkle onto applesauce. Eat the applesauce right away.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than four times during 24 hours.

Cautions

IMPORTANT: Children and teenagers should not use this medicine if they have cold and flu symptoms or chickenpox.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

If you have any of the following side effects, you may be getting too much medicine. Please contact your doctor to let them know about these side effects.

  • confusion
  • ringing in the ears
  • seizures

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • abdominal cramps
  • chest pain
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • fever
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • urinating less often
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.