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Pentasa 
Description
Pentasa Uses
Pentasa (generic name: mesalamine) is an oral prescription medication used to induce remission and manage mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It helps relieve the symptoms of this certain bowel disease. These symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.
This is available in Pentasa 500 mg extended-release tablet.
Mechanism of Action
This anti-inflammatory agent is an aminosalicylate with an unknown action mechanism. However, it is believed that this drug is thought to have topical anti-inflammatory effects on the epithelial cells of the colon. It blocks cyclooxygenase and inhibits prostaglandin production to diminish the inflammation in the colon.
How to Take Pentasa
Before you take this prescription product, you must read the patient information leaflet that comes with it. Do not use this product unless you thoroughly understand all the information and instructions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
This tablet is meant to be taken by mouth. Four times a day is usually the recommended dosage. Swallow the pill and drink a glass of water. Never cut, chew, or crush this drug, for this tablet is designed to be released in the colon. Drink a lot of water or fluids while taking this medication to prevent kidney stones formation.
Pentasa Side Effects
Mild/Common Side Effects:
-Nausea and vomiting
-Headache
-Dizziness
-Gas
-Stomach cramps
-Diarrhea
Severe Side Effects:
-Severe abdominal pain
-Bloody diarrhea
-Changes in the amount of urine
-Dark urine
-Chest pain
-Shortness of breath
Note: This is not a complete or full list of adverse reactions. If any side effects persist or worsen, call a healthcare professional or your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings when Taking Pentasa
Do not take this anti-inflammatory drug if you have an allergy to mesalamine, other salicylates or aminosalicylates, and any inactive ingredients each tablet contains. Signs of serious allergic reactions are severe dizziness, skin rashes, swelling of the face and neck, hives, swollen lymph nodes, and trouble breathing. This must be considered a medical emergency. Immediately call for emergency help if this happens.
This oral drug may be contraindicated for people with a history of pyloric stenosis or any stomach blockage, liver disease, and kidney disease. Due to possible drug interactions, it is also essential to talk about all the prescription drugs, OTC drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This medication contains an active ingredient that is similar to aspirin. Patients eighteen years of age and below should not administer aspirin and any aspirin-related products if suffering from flu, chickenpox, or any undiagnosed illness. Aspirin may elevate the risk of Reye’s syndrome – a rare but serious condition.
Mesalamine can make you more sensitive to the sun. It can worsen or trigger skin conditions like eczema and atopic dermatitis. Make sure to limit your time outdoors while on this drug. You should also wear protective clothing and apply sunblock cream/lotion when going outdoors.
Pregnant moms should avoid this drug as it is still not entirely known if this drug can cause harm to unborn babies. On the other hand, mesalamine can pass into breast milk and may negatively affect nursing infants. Breastfeeding moms should avoid taking the pill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.Is Pentasa an immunosuppressant?
This medication is not an immunosuppressant. It limits inflammation in the gastrointestinal lining without suppressing the immune system.
2. How long does Pentasa take to work?
It can take as fast as two weeks for this medication to work. You may notice improvements in your symptoms within a few weeks of regularly taking this drug.
3. Pentasa used for Crohn’s disease?
Since Pentasa can reduce inflammation and swelling of the intestinal lining, it is also prescribed to use Pentasa Crohn’s disease.
4. Is Lialda and Pentasa the same?
Both Pentasa and Lialda are under the generic name mesalamine and have the same indications.
5. What is the difference between Pentasa and Asacol?
Pentasa and Asacol are both used to treat certain bowel diseases. However, Pentasa comes with an outer chemical coating that is part of its unique formulation.
6. Do you need a prescription for Pentasa?
This medication is only available if you have a valid prescription with you. We require you to send us a copy of a prescription to dispense this drug.
7. What is the price of Pentasa?
The cost of Pentasa varies from different places and depends on your treatment. You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.