Balsalazide oral tablets

What is this medicine?

BALSALAZIDE (bal SAL a zide) is used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis in males at least 18 years old.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Take this medicine with food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• blood in the urine

• breathing problems

• chest pain

• fever, chills, sore throat

• pain in the lower back or side

• pain when urinating

• skin rash or itching

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• stomach pain or cramps

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not take any other medicines without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• intestinal obstruction called pyloric stenosis

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• low salt or sodium diet

• an unusual or allergic reaction to balsalazide, aspirin, mesalamine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better after several days. There is usually an improvement in 3 to 21 days. You may need about 6 weeks of treatment to get good results. It is important that you continue taking your medicine and only stop taking it on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Ask how many glasses of fluid you need to drink a day. You must not get dehydrated.