Let's learn about the Mesalamine Rectal Enema for Ulcerative Colitis

If you have Ulcerative Colitis, you probably know all too well the discomfort it can cause. I understand how difficult it is to live with stomach pain, frequent bowel movements, and bleeding. So, one special treatment that can help control this condition is the Mesalamine Rectal Enema. This is a liquid medication that is administered through the rectum. The name may sound a bit strange, but it is a very effective treatment. Today, we will talk in detail, very simply, about this medication, how to use it, and the things to be careful about.

Simply put, what is Mesalamine?

Mesalamine (pronounced: me-sa-la-meen) is a medicine that reduces inflammation and swelling in your large intestine. Ulcerative Colitis is a condition where the lining of your colon becomes inflamed and sore. This medicine works by going directly to the inflammation and controlling it. This can greatly reduce your symptoms, such as stomach pain and diarrhea.

This medicine belongs to a group of drugs called ``Salicylates.`` You may have heard of Aspirin, which is also a medicine in this group. However, the way these two work and the situations in which they are used are completely different.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before prescribing this medicine. This is essential for your safety. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.

• If you have kidney disease .
• If you have liver disease .
• Tell your doctor if you are allergic to mesalamine, aspirin, or other salicylates. Also tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or expecting a baby soon.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Telling your doctor this information without hiding it will greatly help him choose the right and safe treatment for you.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

This is the most important part. To get the most out of the medicine, you need to know how to use it correctly. Don't worry, you can do it easily if you follow these steps.

Here's how to do it step by step:

1. Preparation: First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Shake the medicine bottle well before use.

2. Correct posture: Go to bed and lie on your left side. Keep your left leg straight and bend your right leg at the knee and pull it towards your chest (as in the picture). Alternatively, if you are comfortable, you can also bend both knees towards your chest. When you are in this position, the medicine will go in and stay well.

3. Inserting the medicine: Unscrew the cap from the applicator tip (the long part where the medicine is inserted) on the top of the medicine bottle. Then, very slowly and carefully, insert the tip into the rectum. Keep the tip of the tip facing the stomach (forward).

4. Squeeze the bottle: Now, at the same speed, slowly squeeze the bottle completely and send all the liquid medicine inside it into the rectum.

5. Staying still: After taking the medicine, lie down in the same position for at least 30 minutes . This time is essential because it is during this time that the medicine is well distributed in the intestines.

6. Best time: For best results, take this medicine before going to bed at night and after you have gone to the toilet and emptied your bowels . If possible, try to keep the medicine in your intestines for about 8 hours . If you use it at night, it will be easier to do so while you are sleeping.

Take your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, at the prescribed intervals. Do not stop taking your medicine without his advice.

What if the dosage of the medicine increases?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. But not everyone gets them. Some of them are a little serious, and if you see something like that, you should tell your doctor right away. Let's separate the two.

Medicine storage and other matters

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat or cold.
• Be careful with stains: This medicine can stain clothes, bedding, floors, painted surfaces, marble, granite, and plastic. So be careful when using it.
• Drink plenty of water: It is not good to become dehydrated while taking this medication. Ask your doctor how much water you should drink per day.
• Special storage instructions: After opening a foil pack of 7 bottles, discard any remaining bottles within 14 days . Sometimes the color of the medicine may change slightly after opening the foil pack. This is normal. However, if the medicine has turned dark brown, do not use it and discard it.

If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor. He or she will monitor your condition and make any necessary changes.

Mesalamine, Mesalamine Enema, Ulcerative Colitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Bowel Ulcers, Rectal Medication, Medication Use