Brand name:
Colazal
Pronounced: KOHL-a-zahl
Generic name:
Balsalazide disodium
Why is Colazal prescribed?
Colazal is used in the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative
colitis (chronic inflammation and ulceration of the lower
intestine). It is an anti-inflammatory medicine specially formulated
to release the active ingredient, mesalamine, directly to the lining
of the colon. Its ability to provide relief without the severe side
effects found with similar drugs is believed to be due to this
localized drug delivery mechanism.
Most important fact about Colazal
Although there have been no reports of kidney damage from
Colazal, other products containing mesalamine are known to have
caused this problem. If you have kidney disease, your doctor will
monitor your condition closely during treatment with Colazal. Report
any problems or unusual symptoms immediately.
How should you take Colazal?
Colazal can be taken with or without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as possible. If it is within two hours of your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Colazal side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Colazal.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
diarrhea,
headache,
joint pain,
nausea,
vomiting,
respiratory infection
Why should Colazal not be prescribed?
Do not take Colazal if you are allergic to mesalamine (Rowasa) or
salicylates such as aspirin.
Special warnings about Colazal
Some cases of fatal liver disease have been reported during
treatment with Colazal. If you have a liver problem, make sure your
doctor is aware of it before you start treatment.
If you have pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the stomach outlet),
Colazal capsules may be slow to pass through the digestive tract.
Although many people get significant relief from Colazal, you
should be aware that in rare cases it makes the symptoms worse.
This drug has not been tested in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Colazal
While drug interactions with Colazal have not yet been studied,
it is possible that oral antibiotics could interfere with the
release of Colazal in the colon.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Colazal during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your
doctor before taking Colazal. It should be used during
pregnancy only if clearly needed.
It is not known whether Colazal appears in breast milk. Because
there's a chance that it may, caution is advised.
Recommended dosage for Colazal
ADULTS
Overdosage
Little is known about Colazal overdose. However, any drug taken
in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose,
seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
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