Have you been prescribed a special medicine called a suppository by your doctor because of a condition called Ulcerative Colitis ? When you are asked to use such a medicine, you may feel a little uncomfortable, embarrassed, or a little afraid of how to do it. It is actually very common. But don't be afraid at all. In this article, we will talk about this medicine and how to use it correctly and easily.
What is this medicine called Mesalamine?
Simply put, Mesalamine is a medication that is used to control inflammation, that is, swelling and damage to the lining of your colon. It belongs to a class of drugs called salicylates. You may have heard of aspirin, which is also in the same class. This medication works by controlling the discomfort and symptoms of your colon condition and providing relief.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before you start using this medicine, it is very important that you tell your doctor the following information clearly. Do not hide these things, as they are very important for your safety.
| Situation to be reported | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have kidney disease. | This medicine can sometimes affect the kidneys, so it is important to be aware of this in advance. |
| If you have liver disease. | If liver function is impaired, the elimination of drugs from the body may be affected. |
| If you have an allergy to mesalamine, aspirin, or other medications/foods. | It is essential to know in advance whether there is a risk of allergies. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | Any medication during pregnancy should only be used on medical advice. |
| If you are breastfeeding a child. | The doctor must determine whether the medication can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
This is how to use this medicine very easily and correctly:
This is the biggest problem that many people have. Don't be afraid, just follow these steps.
Most importantly: The best time to use this medicine is after you have had a bowel movement. This will help it stay in your system longer.
1. Wash your hands: Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after using the medicine.
2. Remove the cover: Carefully peel off the wrapper around the medicine capsule and discard.
3. Don't let the medicine melt: These capsules are designed to melt with body heat. So, minimize the time you hold them in your hand as much as possible. Insert them quickly. Never break or cut the medicine.
4. Position: Lie on your side in bed. Keep your bottom leg straight and your top leg bent at the knee. Imagine you are sleeping on your side.
5. Insertion: Now lift your upper buttock slightly with your hand to expose your rectum. Now with your other hand, push the tip of the pill into your rectum, one at a time, with the tip going first. Once fully inserted, press your buttocks together for a few seconds.
6. Wait a while: After inserting the medicine, try to wait 1 to 3 hours or more without defecating if possible. This is the time it takes for the medicine to work best. So it may be more convenient to use it before going to bed at night.
Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time. Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if you overdose on medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, don't delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of your nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using
- Medical tests: Go to the clinics at the scheduled times as your doctor tells you to and have your condition checked. You may also be asked to do things like blood tests.
- Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve, or if they seem to get worse, tell your doctor immediately.
- Staining: This medicine may stain your clothes, bedding, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, and plastic. Be careful with that.
- Drink water: Ask your doctor how much water you should drink per day. It is very important to keep your body from becoming dehydrated.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medication, mesalamine can cause some side effects. While most of these are minor, there are some things we should be especially aware of.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Heart muscle inflammation | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, abnormally fast heartbeat, extreme fatigue. |
| Mesalamine intolerance syndrome | Sudden severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, fever. |
| Serious skin reactions | Redness of the skin, blistering, peeling of the skin (even inside the mouth). |
| Side effects that occur commonly, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
|---|---|
| Stomach pain | Diarrhea |
| Headache | Nausea |
| Sore throat | Runny nose or stuffy nose |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, talk to your doctor about it.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children.
- Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator (below 25 degrees Celsius/77 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Never put it in the freezer.
- Protect from excessive heat, light, and moisture.
- Throw away expired medicine.
Finally, remember, this medicine is prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
Take-Home Message
- Mesalamine suppositories are a medication used to control inflammation in the intestines caused by ulcerative colitis.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about your other medical conditions and allergies before using this.
- It is very important to insert the medicine correctly and in the correct position to get relief. It may be easier to use it at night before going to bed.
- If you experience any serious side effects (skin rash, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain), seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with others. Talk openly with your doctor about any questions you may have.
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