Salazopyrin

Salazopyrin (Sulfasalazine) has a number of therapeutic uses, including maintenance treatment of ulcerative colitis, the treatment of Crohn`s disease and to treat rheumatoid arthritis when other treatment options (such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) have proven ineffective. This drug is classified as an aminosalicylate, and it is known to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. When taken, it enters the colon where it is split into separate substances (mesalazine and sulfapyridine). Experts have stated that its antibacterial and immunimodulatory properties are due to it changing the action of enzymes within the body.

This helps to reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal system, believed to be the cause of inflammatory bowel disease symptoms. As a result of this, the symptoms of flare ups can be relieved. When used for rheumatoid arthritis, its works as a DMARD (disease modifying antirheumatic drug) and its mechanism of action involves decreasing joint damage, swelling and stiffness. A significant amount of medical research has been carried out which aimed to focus on its effects if used for conditions such as chronic idiopathic urticaria, psoriasis and other disorders which have not been mentioned here.

Salazopyrin (Sulfasalazine) comes in the form of 500mg tablets. Your physician will decide the required dosage, taking into account factors such as the condition that is being treated, the patient`s medical history and the severity of symptoms. Adult patients treating inflammatory bowel disease will usually be instructed by their physician to take the tablets after eating, and at evenly divided intervals throughout the day.

Physicians usually advise patients to start out with a dosage of 2 to 4 tablets, 4 times per day. The maintenance dosage is different to this (4 tablets per day). Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with a different dosage schedule to that listed above, and patients affected by this condition may be told by their physician to take 2 tablets, 2 to 3 times per day. Adjustments to the dosage schedule may be ordered by the physician, and patients must comply with all directions given to them by their physician.

During the course of treatment with Salazopyrin (Sulfasalazine) tablets, you must report all side effects to your physician. Examples can include:

• Nausea
• Sleep problems
• Digestive discomfort
• Reduction in appetite
• Taste sensation changes

Consult your physician straight away should you suffer from sores on the mouth, swelling of the gums, bruising, aching, fever or any other severe adverse events which have not been referenced here.

A decreased sperm count may occur in men who are treated with Salazopyrin (Sulfasalazine) tablets. Talk to your physician about this before beginning treatment.

This medication could increase your skin`s sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, precautions should be taken if going outdoors and unessential exposure to the sun must be avoided.

Regular blood tests may be required by your physician, so that your kidney and liver function can be monitored, as well as other aspects of your health.