What is Pentasa Suppositories used for?
Pentasa (mesalamine) is used in the treatment of ulcerative proctitis, a kind of bowel disease. It doesn’t cure ulcerative proctitis, but can decrease the number of stools, rectal bleeding, and the amount of mucus/blood in the stools. Mesalamine is an aminosalicylate anti-inflammatory medication. It’s believed to work by blocking the production of some natural chemicals that cause pain and swelling.
This section contains uses for Pentasa that aren’t listed in the approved labeling for this medication but that might be prescribed by your doctor. Use Pentasa for Crohn’s disease only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
Pentasa Suppositories Information
How to Use Pentasa Suppositories?
Read the information that comes with Pentasa when you start the medication and whenever you get refills. Use Pentasa rectally. If you use the 1000 mg strength insert rectally, usually once per day around bedtime. If you use a lower strength, then your doctor might direct you to use this medication once to three times daily.
Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Pentasa works the best if you have a bowel movement before inserting it. Wash your hands before and after use of this medication. Unwrap the suppository immediately before using and try to handle it as little as possible as the heat from your fingers can melt the suppository. Lie down on your side with your right knee bent, gently insert the suppository pointed end first, into the rectum with your finger. Remain lying down for a few minutes. Try to avoid having a bowel movement for 1-3 hours so the medicine has time to work. Take Pentasa regularly and use it at the same times each day to help you remember.
Pentasa Suppositories Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work and might increase your risk of side effects. This list is not exhaustive and you should always tell your doctor about all products (prescription, non-prescription and herbal) you take so that they can avoid and manage any interactions that may occur.
The following products may interact with Pentasa Enema:
- Prograf (tacrolimus)
- Purinethol (Mercaptopurine)
- Azasan (azathioprine)
- Hepsera (adefovir)
- Acyclovir (Zovirax)
- Aspirin
- Diclofenac (Voltaren)
- Indomethacin
This list is not exhaustive and you should always tell your doctor about all products (prescription, non-prescription and herbal) you take so that they can avoid and manage any interactions that may occur.