Shall we talk about the Mesalamine pill for Ulcerative Colitis?

Has your doctor told you that you have a condition called ' Ulcerative Colitis '? Then you may have been prescribed a medicine called Mesalamine (Me-sa-la-meen). This is a very important medicine that helps control ulcers and inflammation in the intestines. So, whether you are new to this medicine or someone who is already using it, you may have many questions about it. So today, let's talk very simply about this Mesalamine pill and the things you need to be careful about while using it.

What is Mesalamine?

Simply put, Mesalamine is a medicine that reduces inflammation in your large intestine (digestive tract). In Ulcerative Colitis, the lining of the intestine becomes inflamed and sores form. So Mesalamine works by controlling that inflammation and reducing symptoms.

Also, doctors recommend continuing to use this medication even after your symptoms are under control to prevent flare-ups. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called salicylates.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication

Before giving you Mesalamine, your doctor will want to know your complete health history. Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions below.

• If you have ever had a bowel blockage before.
• If you have kidney disease.
• If you have liver disease.
• If you have a condition called ``Pyloric stenosis``, which is a problem with the stomach valve.
• If you have had an allergic reaction to mesalamine, aspirin, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are trying to get pregnant or are already pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or whether the dosage needs to be changed.

How to use the medicine correctly?

To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.

• Swallowing: Swallow this tablet whole with a glass of water . Never break, crush, or chew this tablet. Doing so may interfere with the effectiveness of the medicine. Sometimes these tablets are designed to dissolve only in a specific part of the intestine. Therefore, it is essential to swallow them whole.
• Time of taking: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day , as prescribed by your doctor. Making this a habit will help you avoid missing your dose.
• With or without food: Ask your doctor whether you should take this medication before, after, or with food.
• Stopping: Even if you feel better, do not stop taking the medication until your doctor tells you to. You may need to continue taking this medication to control the disease, even if your symptoms disappear.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)

If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .

Things to consider when taking medication

While taking mesalamine, there are a few things you should pay attention to.

• Other medications: Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (for other conditions), vitamins, and herbal remedies. The following medications in particular may interact with Mesalamine:
• Azathioprine
• Mercaptopurine
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - Examples: Ibuprofen, Naproxen
• Sun sensitivity: Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight while taking this medicine. This means that your skin may redden and burn more easily. Therefore, avoid going out in the sun as much as possible. If you do go out, wear protective clothing and use a good sunscreen.
• Kidney tests: While taking this medicine, your doctor may order blood tests to monitor your kidney function. Don't skip these tests.
• Drink plenty of water: It is very important to avoid dehydration. Consult your doctor about the amount of water you should drink per day.
• Tablet shell: With some types of Mesalamine, the empty tablet shell may pass out in your stool after the medicine is absorbed. This is normal. However, if this happens frequently or you are concerned that the medicine is not being absorbed properly, talk to your doctor.
• Switching Brands: Do not change the brand of Mesalamine you are using without talking to your doctor, as the dosage may vary between different brands.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, Mesalamine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, while others are mild.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms in addition to these, talk to your doctor about them.

How do you store and dispose of medication safely?

• Storage: Always keep medicines out of the reach of children and pets . Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not use expired medicines.
• Disposal: The safest way to dispose of unused or expired medications is to hand them over to a drug collection program at public hospitals or some pharmacies. If that's not possible, crush the pills, mix them with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, and place them in a tightly sealed bag and throw them in the trash.

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