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Canasa |
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What is Canasa and why is it prescribed? Canasa is used to treat inflammation of the rectum. Mesalamine, the active ingredient in Canasa, has been known to cause side effects such as: Bloody diarrhea, Cramping, Fever, Rash, Severe headache, and Sudden, severe stomach pain. If you develop any of these symptoms, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor. How should you take Canasa? Follow your doctors directions for taking Canasa. To use Canasa Suppositories (1) Canasa Suppositories can be used 2 or 3 times a day, (2) You should handle the suppositories as little as possible, because they are designed to melt at body temperature, (3) Remove one suppository from the strip of suppositories, (4) While holding the suppository upright, carefully remove the wrapper, (5) Using gentle pressure, insert the suppository (with the pointed end first) completely into the rectum. A small amount of lubricating gel may be used on the tip of the suppository to assist insertion, and (6) The suppository should be retained for 1 to 3 hours or longer for best results. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Canasa at room temperature. Keep suppositories away from direct heat, light, and humidity. Do not refrigerate. Are there any Canasa side effects? Canasa side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Canasa side effects generally include diarrhea, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, gas, headache, nausea, and stomach pain. Other typical Canasa side effects may include abdominal pain, acne, back pain, belching, bloating, chest pain, chills, constipation, fever, hair loss, hemorrhoids, indigestion, insomnia, itching, joint pain, leg pain, liver disorders, menstrual problems, muscle pain, nasal inflammation, rash, rectal pain or bleeding, sore throat, stomach and intestinal bleeding, sweating, swelling of the arms and legs, tiredness, urinary burning, vomiting, and weakness. Although quite rare, other problems are possible. If you notice any unusual symptoms, check with your doctor. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Canasa? If Canasa is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Canasa with sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). Are there any special warnings about Canasa? Your doctor should check your kidney function while you are taking mesalamine, especially if you have a history of kidney disease or you are using other anti-inflammatory drugs such as Dipentum. Because older adults tend to have weaker kidneys, mesalamine is more likely to trigger side effects within this age group. The drug also seems more prone to cause blood disorders in older adults. If you are 65 or older, be sure to tell the doctor about any change in your health. You should use mesalamine cautiously if you are allergic to sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). If you develop a rash or fever, you should stop using the medication and notify your doctor. Some people using mesalamine have developed flare-ups of their colitis. Inflammation of the pancreas has also been reported. Rare cases of pericarditis, in which the membrane surrounding the heart becomes inflamed, have been reported with products containing mesalamine. Symptoms may include chest, neck, and shoulder pain, and shortness of breath. Canasa can stain surfaces, including marble, granite, plastic, and painted surfaces. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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