What is Pentasa used for?

This medication is used to treat a certain bowel disease (ulcerative colitis). It helps to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain. Mesalamine belongs to a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates. It works by decreasing swelling in the colon.

What are the side effects of taking Pentasa?

Common side effects of Pentasa include:

  • diarrhea,
  • headache,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • stomach cramps,
  • gas,
  • fever,
  • sore throat,

How long does Pentasa take to work for ulcerative colitis?

You may need about 6 weeks of treatment to get good results. Do not change the brand of this medicine that you are taking without talking to your doctor or health care professional.

How long should you take Pentasa?

Duration of therapy: Up to 8 weeks. Uses: Treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis and induction of remission of ulcerative colitis.

Is Pentasa safe to take?

Pentasa may cause liver problems and worsen any liver problems you already have. Your doctor may order blood tests to check how well your liver is working during your Pentasa treatment. If any liver problems develop or worsen, your doctor may recommend you stop taking Pentasa.

Does Pentasa lower immune system?

Since they do not suppress the immune system, you do not need frequent monitoring of your blood counts.

Can you take Pentasa long term?

Conclusions. Long-term continuous treatment with high-dose mesalazine (4.0 g/day) may be more effective than short-term treatment for maintenance of remission in UC patients.

Does ulcerative colitis ever go away?

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term (chronic) disease. There may be times when your symptoms go away and you are in remission for months or even years. But the symptoms will come back. If only your rectum is affected, your risk of colon cancer is not higher than normal.

Is there a permanent cure for ulcerative colitis?

There’s no cure for ulcerative colitis, but treatments can calm the inflammation, help you feel better and get you back to your daily activities. Treatment also depends on the severity and the individual, so treatment depends on each person’s needs. Usually, healthcare providers manage the disease with medications.

Can you take Pentasa long-term?

Does colitis ever go away?

Can I just stop taking Pentasa?

If you stop taking it suddenly, your condition may worsen. Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking PENTASA®. This medicine helps most people but it may have unwanted side effects in a few people.