What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Mesalamine is formulated for oral ingestion as tablets or capsules, and for rectal administration as rectal suppository, suspension or enemas.
Following rectal administration of mesalamine (by enema or suppository), only 15% of a dose is absorbed. Following oral administration, 28% of a dose is absorbed.
For tablets or capsules:
Take mesalamine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose of mesalamine with a full glass of water. Additionally, each dose can be taken with or without food.
Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release the medication after they have passed through your stomach.
Notify your doctor if you repeatedly find undissolved tablets in your stool.
for rectal administration:
Try to empty your bowel just before using a rectal form of mesalamine.
Insert the suppositories rectally. Remove the foil wrapper and insert a suppository into the rectum, pointed end first. Avoid excessive handling of the suppository, because it is designed to melt at body temperature. Retain the suppository for one to three hours, or longer, if possible to get the maximum benefit from this medication.
Shake the rectal suspension well before use. Remove the protective cap from the applicator tip. Hold the bottle at the neck to prevent any of the medication from spilling out. Gently insert the tip into the rectum, pointing toward the belly button (umbilicus). Squeeze the bottle steadily to discharge most of the medication. Retain the suspension overnight if possible to get the maximum benefit from this medication.
Use this medication cautiously when applying the suppositories or rectal suspension. These products may stain clothing, flooring, painted surfaces, vinyl, enamel, marble, granite, and other surfaces.
The rectal suspension may darken slightly in color. Throw away any bottles that contain very dark brown liquid.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?