When your doctor prescribes a new medication, it's normal to feel a little nervous and curious about it. Especially if it's for a condition in your intestines, many questions come to mind, such as whether this medication is right for me and what will happen. So today, let's talk about the medication `Balsalazide` that your doctor may prescribe for a condition called `Ulcerative Colitis`. After reading this, you will have a better understanding of this medication.
What is this Balsalazide?
Simply put, `Balsalazide` is a medicine used to treat a condition called ` Ulcerative Colitis` . `Ulcerative Colitis` is an inflammation of the lining of our large intestine, which means it becomes swollen and sores form. This medicine works by reducing that inflammation and controlling your symptoms. This medicine belongs to a class of medicines called `Salicylates`. You may find it under the brand name `Colazal`.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
But before starting this medication, you should definitely discuss these points with your doctor. Because based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is suitable for you or not, or how to give it.
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have liver disease .
- If you have had an allergic reaction to medicines such as `Balsalazide`, `Aspirin`, `Mesalamine`, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
It is very important for your safety to clearly tell your doctor about these matters.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
- Swallow this capsule with a glass of water.
- Take the prescribed dose, at the prescribed time, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than your doctor tells you to, or take it later than prescribed.
- If you are giving this medicine to children, it may require special care. So follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
Most importantly: This medicine has been prescribed for you by your doctor. Never share it with anyone else, even if someone else says they have the same symptoms as you.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Don't waste time.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
Forgetting to take a dose of medicine can happen to anyone. If this happens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take double doses to make up for a missed dose.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
There are several things you should pay attention to while using this medicine.
- Symptom relief: If your symptoms do not start to improve within a few days, talk to your doctor. Symptoms usually improve within 3 to 21 days. However, you may need to take the medication for up to 6 weeks for best results. Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice.
- Sun protection: Your skin may be a little sensitive to sunlight while taking this medicine. So stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you go outside, wear clothing that covers your skin, and use sunscreen . Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.
- Drink plenty of water: It's not good to let your body become dehydrated during this time. Ask your doctor about how much water you should drink per day.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, `Balsalazide` can cause side effects in some people. However, not everybody gets them. Some of these are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
| Side effect | Description and symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Breathing difficulties | Unexplained dry cough, difficulty breathing. |
| Heart muscle inflammation | Feeling unusually tired, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, swelling of the ankles and feet. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right part of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual tiredness. |
| Mesalamine intolerance syndrome | Severe stomach pain or cramping, bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, fever, skin rash. |
| Serious skin reactions | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
| Headache | Headache. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Stomach pain | A slight stomach ache. |
Take-Home Message
- Take Balsalazide exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time, and in the right dosage.
- Before starting the medication, inform your doctor about your other medical conditions, allergies, and whether you are pregnant.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as severe skin rashes, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, seek medical advice immediately.
- While taking this medication, protect yourself from the harsh sun and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give it to anyone else. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any questions you have.
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