Olsalazine
Ulcerative Colitis
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Aminosalicylate
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Olsalazine
Summary
Olsalazine is typically used for maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis, a condition that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon.
Olsalazine is converted to mesalamine in the colon by bacteria. Mesalamine acts as an anti-inflammatory agent on the cells lining the colon, reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of certain inflammatory chemicals.
Olsalazine is usually taken orally, twice a day after meals or with food. The usual daily dose for adults is 500 mg. It's important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
Common side effects of Olsalazine include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Serious effects can include renal impairment, hypersensitivity reactions, and hepatic failure. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Olsalazine should not be used by patients with hypersensitivity to salicylates or aminosalicylates. It may cause renal impairment and hypersensitivity reactions. Patients with liver disease should be cautious and those with pre-existing skin conditions should avoid sun exposure. Regular monitoring of renal function is recommended.
Indications and Purpose
How does Olsalazine work?
Olsalazine is converted to mesalamine in the colon by colonic bacteria. Mesalamine acts as a topical anti-inflammatory agent on the colonic epithelial cells, reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
Is Olsalazine effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Olsalazine is effective in maintaining remission in patients with ulcerative colitis. In one study, patients taking Olsalazine had a significantly lower relapse rate compared to those taking a placebo. Another study showed similar effectiveness to sulfasalazine in maintaining remission.
What is Olsalazine?
Olsalazine is used to treat ulcerative colitis in adults who cannot tolerate sulfasalazine. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon, which helps decrease symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Olsalazine is converted to mesalamine in the colon, which has a topical anti-inflammatory effect on the intestinal lining.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Olsalazine?
Olsalazine is typically used for the maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis. The duration of use can vary based on individual response and doctor's recommendation. It is important to follow your doctor's guidance on how long to take this medication.
How do I take Olsalazine?
Olsalazine should be taken orally, usually twice a day after meals or with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. There are no specific food restrictions, but always follow your doctor's instructions.
How should I store Olsalazine?
Store Olsalazine in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program, not by flushing it down the toilet.
What is the usual dose of Olsalazine?
The usual daily dose for adults is 500 mg taken orally twice a day. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for children.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Olsalazine with other prescription drugs?
Olsalazine may interact with nephrotoxic agents, increasing the risk of kidney damage. It can also interact with azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine, increasing the risk of blood disorders. Additionally, it may increase bleeding risk when taken with low molecular weight heparins or heparinoids. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Can Olsalazine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Olsalazine and its metabolite, mesalamine, are present in small amounts in breast milk. There are reports of diarrhea in breastfed infants. The benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against the mother's need for Olsalazine and any potential risks to the infant. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Olsalazine be taken safely while pregnant?
There is limited data on the use of Olsalazine during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse developmental effects at high doses. Olsalazine should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risks. Consult your doctor for personalized advice if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Is Olsalazine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have a higher risk of blood disorders when taking Olsalazine. It is important to monitor complete blood cell counts and platelet counts during treatment. Consider the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function in elderly patients when prescribing Olsalazine.
Who should avoid taking Olsalazine?
Olsalazine is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to salicylates or aminosalicylates. It may cause renal impairment, acute intolerance syndrome, and hypersensitivity reactions. Patients with liver disease should be cautious, and those with pre-existing skin conditions should avoid sun exposure. Regular monitoring of renal function is recommended.
