MESALAMINES

MESALAMINES

Mesalamines is similar to aspirin in many ways. Mesalamines have chemical structures that are called 5-ASA (aminosalicylic acid), while aspirin is 6-ASA. Both seem to control inflammation, but mesalamine does not cause ulcers like aspirin can, and mesalamine only works on the gastrointestinal tract.

There are several brands of mesalamine

  • Pentasa and Apriso are released from their capsules in the small intestine and work there and in the large intestine (colon).
  • Asacol HD, Colazol, Lialda and Delzicol (olsalazine) are released in the lower part of the small intestine to work in the terminal ileum and colon. Dipentum and Azulfadine (sulfasalazine) work in the colon. 
  • Colazol (balsalazide) and Apriso capsules can be opened easily and can be used by children and others who can't swallow capsules.

Side Effects of Mesalamines

  • abdominal pain and cramps, nausea
  • increased diarrhea, gas 
  • hair loss 
  • headache, and dizziness
  • pancreatitis
  • severe rash, joint swelling and lower sperm counts [sulfasalazine (Azulfadine) only]

This article, as well as all others, was reviewed and edited by a member of our Medical Advisory Board.

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