What is Pentasa (Asamax) used for?
Pentasa is used to treat ulcerative colitis. Pentasa helps to reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as rectal bleeding, diarrhea and stomach pain. Pentasa works by reducing the swelling in the colon associated with ulcerative colitis.
Pentasa (Asamax) Information
What is Pentasa?
Pentasa is a prescription drug used to treat the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Pentasa belongs to a class of drugs called aminosalicylates.
Pentasa is a brand name drug. Another brand name for Pentasa is Salofalk.
Pentasa is also available as the generic Mesalamine from New Zealand marketed under the name Asamax.
Pentasa is a delayed and extended release (slow release)
formulation of mesalamine (also known as mesalazine).
Pentasa is available in various dosage forms:
- Tablet in the strengths 500mg and 1000mg (1g)
- Sachet (contains extended release granules) in the strengths 1g, 2g and 4g
- Suppository in the strength 1g
- Enema in the strength 1g/100ml
How to take Pentasa?
Pentasa tablets should be swallowed whole. They should not be crushed, chewed or broken. Pentasa sachets contain granules.
The contents of the sachet can be placed directly onto the tongue and swallowed with water or juice. Alternatively, the granules can be mixed with yogurt and taken immediately. The granules should not be chewed.
Pentasa enemas and suppositories are used rectally. Follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions carefully on how to use.
Possible side effects of Pentasa?
Common side effects of Pentasa are:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Flatulence
- Rash
Other side effects of Pentasa are:
- Altered blood counts
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Pancolitis
- Increased liver enzymes
- Reversible alopecia
- Myalgia
- Arthralgia
- Renal insufficiency
- Urine discoloration
This is not a full list of possible side effects for Pentasa. Let your doctor know if you experience severe or persistent adverse effects while taking Pentasa.
Possible Drug Interactions with Pentasa?
No interaction studies were conducted with Pentasa, however, the following drugs may have an interaction with Pentasa.
- Azathioprine
- 6-mercaptopurine
- Thioguanine
- Warfarin
- NSAIDS (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen)
Pentasa (Asamax) FAQs
Does Pentasa cause joint pain?
Pentasa can cause arthralgia which is joint pain or stiffness.
Why is Pentasa so expensive?
Drugs prices are determined by various factors such as how commonly the drug is prescribed, condition the drug is used to treat, whether there is a generic available, country of origin and availability of the drug.
Pentasa is one of many brands and strengths of mesalamine (mesalazine) used to treat ulcerative colitis but is only one of two brands available in the 500mg and 1000mg strengths. There is only one generic option available for Pentasa. These could be contributing factors for the cost of Pentasa.
Can Pentasa cause weight gain?
Pentasa does not cause weight gain.
Does Pentasa cause hair loss?
Pentasa can cause hair loss (alopecia). This is reversible with hair growth resuming when Pentasa is stopped.
Pentasa cost in Canada
Pentasa 500mg cost in Canada
Pentasa 500mg is available in 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 tabs pack and cost as low as $0.84/tab
Pentasa 1000mg cost in Canada
Pentasa 500mg is available in 60, 120 and 180 tabs pack and cost as low as $1.73/tab
For accurate and updated price, please scroll up and check products section.