Mesalamine 1.2g

Mesalamine 1.2g — Uses and Benefits

Mesalamine 1.2g is mainly prescribed for ulcerative colitis, a chronic condition causing inflammation of the large intestine (colon) and rectum.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating active mild to moderate ulcerative colitis
• Maintaining remission (keeping symptoms away) in ulcerative colitis
• Reducing bowel inflammation, diarrhoea, and blood/mucus in stools caused by colitis

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts locally on the inner lining of the colon and rectum
• It reduces the release of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation
• It helps calm the swollen, irritated bowel tissue and promotes healing

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for infectious diarrhoea caused by bacteria or viruses
• It is not a painkiller and should not be used for general stomach pain
• It is not used for Crohn's disease flares outside the colon, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• It does not cure ulcerative colitis; it controls and manages symptoms

How to Use Mesalamine 1.2g

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food
• Swallow tablets/capsules whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is fine
• If using granules, follow the specific instructions given with the pack
• Take doses at the same times each day to maintain steady effect
• Continue taking it for the full duration advised, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, tell your doctor as this can affect control of your condition

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Mesalamine 1.2g — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Nausea
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Flatulence (gas)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Joint or muscle pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Unexplained bruising, bleeding, or signs of low blood count (extreme tiredness, pale skin)
• Severe worsening of colitis symptoms (bloody diarrhoea, high fever, severe abdominal pain)
• Chest pain, breathlessness, or swelling suggesting heart or lung inflammation
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Signs of kidney problems such as reduced urination or swelling in legs

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Mesalamine 1.2g — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available in India only with a valid doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to mesalamine, salicylates (like aspirin), or any ingredient in the formulation
• Have severe liver or kidney disease, unless your doctor specifically advises otherwise
• Have a known bleeding disorder without medical supervision

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of heart or lung disease, including pericarditis
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of stomach ulcers
• Are due to have blood tests, as this medicine may be monitored with periodic liver, kidney and blood count checks

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Azathioprine or mercaptopurine (increased risk of blood-related side effects)
• Blood thinners such as warfarin (may increase bleeding risk)
• Other NSAIDs or salicylate-containing medicines
• Medicines affecting kidney function

Always share your complete list of medicines and supplements with your doctor or pharmacist.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may irritate the bowel and reduce the medicine's effectiveness; ask your doctor for personal advice.

How long does it take to work?

Some improvement may be seen within a few weeks, but full benefit for maintaining remission may take longer; do not stop early without consulting your doctor.

Can this medicine be used long term?

• Yes, many people take it long term to maintain remission, but regular monitoring by your doctor is required.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.