Mesacol 800 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

MESACOL 800 MG TABLET

Mesacol 800 MG Tablet, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., is a medication used in the management of inflammatory bowel diseases.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Mesacol 800 MG Tablet
  • Common Name: Mesalamine (also known as Mesalazine or 5-Aminosalicylic Acid)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 800 mg of Mesalamine (Mesalazine) as its active ingredient.

• Uses: Mesacol 800 MG Tablet is primarily prescribed for the treatment and management of inflammatory bowel diseases:

  • Ulcerative Colitis: Used for mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis, to reduce inflammation in the colon and rectum, and to prevent flare-ups and maintain remission. It helps alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.
  • Crohn's Disease: Prescribed to control symptoms, reduce inflammation, manage flare-ups, and maintain remission in Crohn's disease, including Crohn's ileocolitis.

• Dosage and Administration: Mesacol 800 MG Tablet should be taken orally as directed by a physician. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not be crushed, chewed, or broken. It can generally be taken with or without food, though some advice suggests one hour before or two hours after food. The exact dosage and duration depend on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment. For ulcerative colitis, common dosages may range from 3 to 6 tablets daily in divided doses for acute attacks, and 3 tablets daily for maintenance of remission. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain/abdominal pain and cramping
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Flatulence (gas)
  • Skin rash or itching

  Serious side effects, though rare, can occur, such as severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. If any persistent or worsening side effects, or severe reactions, occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

• Precautions:

  • Allergies: Do not take if allergic to mesalazine, any other ingredients in Mesacol Tablet, or salicylates (e.g., aspirin).
  • Kidney and Liver Issues: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. It is not recommended for those with severe kidney failure. Kidney function may be monitored.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Other Conditions: Caution is advised for elderly patients, those with lung diseases like asthma, heart problems, blood abnormalities, or obstructive conditions in the stomach and intestines.
  • Kidney Stones: Patients may develop kidney stones; adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water is advised.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, herbal preparations, and supplements you are taking. Interactions can occur with:
    • Antacids (may reduce mesalazine absorption)
    • Immunosuppressants like azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, and thioguanine (may increase risk of blood disorders)
    • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) (may increase risk of kidney problems)
    • Warfarin (may decrease its effect)
  • Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may recur or worsen.

• Storage: Store Mesacol 800 MG Tablet in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. The recommended storage temperature is typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

MESACOL 800 MG TABLET (15 TAB) by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD. FAQs

What is Mesacol 800 MG Tablet used for?

Mesacol 800 MG Tablet is primarily used to treat and prevent flare-ups of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation, irritation, and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine and rectum. It helps alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and rectal bleeding. This medicine is also used to maintain remission in ulcerative colitis and, in some cases, Crohn's disease.

How does Mesacol 800 MG Tablet work?

Mesacol 800 MG Tablet contains mesalamine (also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA), which is an anti-inflammatory drug. It works locally in the colon by inhibiting the production of certain chemical messengers, like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, that cause inflammation in the intestines. This action reduces swelling and irritation, minimizes ulceration, and helps in the healing of the intestinal lining, thereby relieving symptoms and preventing future flare-ups.

What is the usual dosage of Mesacol 800 MG Tablet?

Mesacol 800 MG Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor. The dosage depends on the severity of the condition. For the treatment of ulcerative colitis, adults may typically take 800 mg three times a day for 6 weeks. It can be taken with or without food, but some sources suggest taking it with food to avoid stomach discomfort, or one hour before or two hours after food. It is important to swallow the tablet whole and not to chew, crush, or break it.

What are the possible side effects of Mesacol 800 MG Tablet?

Common side effects of Mesacol 800 MG Tablet include headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain/cramping, indigestion, rash, itching, and vomiting. Less common side effects can include fever, chest pain, numbness, tingling or pricking sensation, blurred vision, hair loss, constipation, and dizziness. Most of these side effects are temporary and usually resolve on their own. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is Mesacol 800 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

You should consult your doctor before using Mesacol 800 MG Tablet if you are pregnant, as there is limited information about its safety during pregnancy. Your doctor will only prescribe it if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Mesalazine, the active ingredient, crosses the placenta, and while limited human data show no increase in overall congenital malformations, some studies indicate a possible increased rate of preterm birth, stillbirth, and low birth weight, which are also associated with active inflammatory bowel disease.

When breastfeeding, Mesacol 800 MG Tablet passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but it's important to talk to your doctor first. Monitor the baby for symptoms like diarrhea, poor feeding, vomiting, or rash, and contact a healthcare professional if these occur.

Can Mesacol 800 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal preparations, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Immunosuppressants: Be cautious when taking Mesacol with medicines like azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or thioguanine, as it may increase the risk of blood disorders.
• Blood thinners: When taken with blood thinners like warfarin, Mesacol may decrease the effect of warfarin.
• NSAIDs: Medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen can interact with Mesacol, potentially increasing the risk of kidney problems.
• Antacids: Some antacids may reduce the absorption of mesalamine.

What precautions should be taken while taking Mesacol 800 MG Tablet?

• Allergies: Do not take Mesacol if you are allergic to mesalamine or any other ingredients, or if you have an allergy to salicylates (like aspirin or ibuprofen).
• Liver and Kidney Issues: Use with caution if you have liver or kidney problems. Your doctor may monitor these functions periodically.
• Lung Diseases: Inform your doctor if you have lung diseases like asthma.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have experienced an allergic reaction to sulfasalazine previously, inform your doctor.
• Kidney Stones: Drink plenty of water during treatment to help prevent kidney stones.
• Children: Mesacol 800 MG Tablet is generally not recommended for children under 6 years old. Some sources suggest caution or non-recommendation for children under 18 years due to insufficient safety data.
• Driving: While it's not usually expected to affect your ability to drive, Mesacol may sometimes cause dizziness, so be cautious when driving or operating machinery.
• Skin Reactions: Severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis can occur rarely. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any skin reactions.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Mesacol 800 MG Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should it be stored?

Store Mesacol 800 MG Tablet in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it tightly closed in its original container, out of the sight and reach of children and pets. The storage temperature should generally be below 25°C or below 30°C.