Mesalamine, 5-ASA suppositories

What is this medicine?

MESALAMINE (me SAL a meen) is used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Take off the wrapping. Try to handle the suppository as little as you can, so that it does not melt before use. Do not cut or break suppository. A small amount of lubricating gel may be used on the tip of the suppository. Lie on your side with your lower leg straightened out and your upper leg bent forward toward your stomach. Lift upper buttock to expose the rectal area. Apply gentle pressure to insert the suppository completely into the rectum, pointed end first. Hold buttocks together for a few seconds. For best results, use this medicine after you have had a bowel movement, and try to keep in place for 1 to 3 hours or longer. Do not use more often than directed.

Take your medicine at regular intervals. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

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

• bloody diarrhea

• breathing problems

• chest pain

• pain in the lower back or side

• pain when urinating

• rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes

• signs and symptoms of infection like fever; chills; cough; sore throat; pain or trouble passing urine

• signs and symptoms of liver injury like dark yellow or brown urine; general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea; right upper belly pain; unusually weak or tired; yellowing of the eyes or skin

• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusual or severe stomach upset or pain

• unusually weak or tired

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

• gas

• headache

• mild hair loss

• nausea, vomiting

• rectal pain or discomfort

• stomach pain

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

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 or in a refrigerator below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from heat. Protect from light and moisture. 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:

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to mesalamine, aspirin, other medicines, foods like saturated vegetable oils, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may need blood work done while taking this medicine.

This medicine may stain clothing and other fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, plastics, and enamel.

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