In the United Kingdom, Pentasa comes as a tablet rather than a capsule. The active ingredient is called mesalamine in the United States but is called Mesalazine in other countries including the UK. The license holder for Pentasa is Ferring Pharmaceuticals in the United Kingdom.
A generic version of Pentasa is also available in the United Kingdom, but only at 250mg strength. If you require a lower dose, or smaller increments in your dosing, the generic Pentasa may be right for you. The US version of Pentasa can be opened and sprinkled but the UK version cannot.
Prescription Pentasa is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Chrohn's disease in adults and prevent their recurrence. Pentasa reduces rectal bleeding, diarrhea and stomach pain by lessening colon swelling. It is classified as an aminosalicylate.
The usual dose of Pentasa is 1000mg four times per day, a total of 4 grams daily. Pentasa may be taken without regards to food (with or without food). Pentasa has been a popular treatment for more than 20 years.
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Information about Pentasa (Mesalamine or Mesalazine)
Pentasa is a medication that contains mesalamine (also known as mesalazine), an anti-inflammatory drug primarily used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Mesalamine works by reducing inflammation in the intestines, helping to alleviate symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bleeding, which are common in these conditions. Pentasa is available in various forms, including extended-release tablets and oral suspensions, which allow the medication to act throughout the digestive tract.
Product Highlights
- Used to induce and maintain remission in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory condition that affects the colon.
- Although less common, mesalamine may be used in the treatment of Crohn's disease, particularly when inflammation is localized to the colon.
- Sometimes used for treating other gastrointestinal conditions with inflammation, as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Helps reduce inflammation in the intestines, which is the underlying cause of symptoms in conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
- Helps to control symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bleeding in inflammatory bowel diseases.
- Can help maintain remission in IBD patients, preventing flare-ups and providing longer periods of symptom relief.
- As a targeted treatment, mesalamine generally has fewer systemic side effects compared to oral steroids used for similar conditions.
Direction of Use
- Always take Pentasa exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The usual dose depends on the specific condition being treated and the individual’s health status.
- Take with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Shake well before each dose and measure the correct amount using the provided dosing device.
- Take the medication regularly, even if you feel well, to maintain remission and prevent flare-ups.
- Pentasa can be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Safety Concerns
- Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to mesalamine, including rash, itching, or breathing difficulties. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
- Mesalamine can affect kidney function, and patients should be monitored for any signs of kidney issues, particularly those with pre-existing kidney problems.
- Rarely, mesalamine can cause blood disorders such as low white blood cell or platelet counts. Regular blood tests may be needed to monitor these potential side effects.
- Mesalamine may cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, especially when starting the medication.
Avoid Pentasa (Mesalamine or Mesalazine) If
- Do not use Pentasa if you have a known allergy to mesalamine, sulfasalazine, or other similar medications.
- Avoid Pentasa if you have severe liver or kidney problems, as the drug may worsen these conditions.
- If you are experiencing active gastrointestinal bleeding, you should avoid taking Pentasa.
- Consult with your healthcare provider before using Pentasa during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The medication may be prescribed if the benefits outweigh the risks.
