Sulfasalazine
 
What is Sulfasalazine and why is it prescribed?
Sulfasalazine is an anti-inflammatory medicine prescribed for the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and as an added treatment in severe ulcerative colitis. Sulfasalazine is also prescribed to decrease severe attacks of ulcerative colitis. Sulfasalazine EN-tabs are prescribed for people with ulcerative colitis who cannot take the regular Sulfasalazine tablet because of symptoms of stomach and intestinal irritation such as nausea and vomiting when taking the first few doses of the drug, or for those in whom a reduction in dosage does not lessen the stomach or intestinal side effects. The EN-tabs are also prescribed for adults and children with rheumatoid arthritis who fail to get relief from salicylates or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Although ulcerative colitis rarely disappears completely, the risk of recurrence can be substantially reduced by the continued use of Sulfasalazine.

How should you take Sulfasalazine?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Sulfasalazine. Take Sulfasalazine in evenly spaced, equal doses, as determined by your doctor, preferably after meals or with food to avoid stomach upset. Swallow Sulfasalazine EN-tabs whole. It is important that you drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to avoid kidney stones. If you are taking Sulfasalazine EN-tabs for rheumatoid arthritis, it may take up to 12 weeks for relief to occur. 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. Do not take two doses at once. Store Sulfasalazine at room temperature.

Are there any Sulfasalazine side effects?
Sulfasalazine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Sulfasalazine side effects may include abdominal pain, anemia, bluish skin, fever, headache, hives, inflammation of the mouth, itching, lack of appetite, nausea, rash, stomach distress, and vomiting. Less common or rare Sulfasalazine side effects may include blood disorders, blood in the urine, bloody diarrhea, convulsions, diarrhea, diminished urination, drowsiness, hallucinations, hearing loss, hepatitis, inability to fall or stay asleep, intestinal inflammation, itchy skin eruptions, joint pain, kidney disorders, lack of muscle coordination, loss of hair, mental depression, red, raised rash, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light, severe allergic reaction, skin discoloration, skin disorders, spinal cord defects, swelling around the eye, urinary tract infections, urine discoloration, and vertigo.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Sulfasalazine?
If Sulfasalazine 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 Sulfasalazine with Digoxin (Lanoxin), Folic acid (a B-complex vitamin), or Methotrexate (Rheumatrex).

Are there any special warnings about Sulfasalazine?
If you have kidney or liver damage or any blood disease, your doctor will check you very carefully before prescribing Sulfasalazine. Deaths have been reported from allergic reactions, blood diseases, kidney or liver damage, changes in nerve and muscle impulses, and fibrosing alveolitis. Signs such as sore throat, fever, abnormal paleness of the skin, purple or red spots on the skin, or jaundice may be an indication of a serious blood disorder. Your doctor will do frequent blood counts and urine tests. Use caution taking Sulfasalazine if you have a severe allergy or bronchial asthma. If you develop loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting, report it immediately. The doctor may need to adjust your dosage or change the prescription. If Sulfasalazine EN-tabs are eliminated un­disintegrated, stop taking the drug and notify your doctor immediately. Men taking Sulfasalazine may experience temporary infertility and a low sperm count. Skin and urine may become yellow-orange in color while taking Sulfasalazine. In addition, prolonged exposure to the sun should be avoided. This drug is generally not prescribed for children under 6. Sulfasalazine EN-tabs are not recommended for children with the type of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis that affects the whole system, only for children with the type that stays in the joints.
 

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