Rowasa Sachet 2 Gm

ROWASA SACHET 2 GM

Name:

• Brand Name: ROWASA SACHET 2 GM
• Common Name: Mesalazine

Composition: Each sachet contains Mesalazine 2 gm as the active ingredient.

Uses: ROWASA SACHET 2 GM is an anti-inflammatory medication primarily prescribed for the treatment and management of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).

• Ulcerative Colitis: Used for mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis and for maintaining remission, reducing inflammation in the colon and preventing flare-ups.
• Crohn's Disease: Employed to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation in Crohn's disease, including Crohn's ileocolitis. It works by inhibiting the production of certain chemical substances like prostaglandins that cause pain and swelling, thereby reducing intestinal inflammation and alleviating symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Dosage and Administration: ROWASA SACHET 2 GM is for oral administration. The granules from the sachet should be emptied directly onto the tongue and swallowed with water or orange juice, or mixed with yogurt and consumed immediately. Do not chew the granules. The exact dosage and duration are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's condition, age, and body weight. It is typically advised to take as prescribed, often once daily, and not to exceed the recommended dose. It can be taken one hour before or two hours after food, or with or without food as advised by the doctor.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, flatulence (gas), indigestion, bloating, and muscle pain. These usually resolve over time.
• Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe headache, fever, rash, severe abdominal cramps, or severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome (skin peeling, blistering). Other serious side effects may include kidney problems (e.g., kidney stones, blood in urine), liver issues, unusual bleeding, bruising, or nosebleeds.

Precautions: Inform your doctor if you have allergies to Mesalazine, any other ingredients, or aspirin. Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver impairment; severe kidney failure is a contraindication. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor, as the medicine should only be used if necessary. It should be used with caution in the elderly and is generally not recommended for children below six years of age for granules. Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication. Ensure adequate hydration to help prevent kidney stone formation. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, as interactions can occur.

Storage: Store ROWASA SACHET 2 GM in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Protect it from light and excessive moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about ROWASA SACHET 2 GM (Mesalazine):

What is ROWASA SACHET 2 GM used for?

ROWASA SACHET 2 GM, which contains Mesalazine (also known as Mesalamine), is primarily used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, particularly mild to moderate cases. It helps to reduce inflammation in the intestines and alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. It can also help prevent future flare-ups of these conditions.

How does ROWASA SACHET 2 GM work?

ROWASA SACHET 2 GM contains Mesalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug belonging to the aminosalicylate class. It works by locally inhibiting the production of certain inflammatory chemical substances, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, in the intestinal lining. This action helps to reduce inflammation, swelling, and tissue damage in the digestive tract, thereby alleviating associated symptoms.

What is the usual dosage for ROWASA SACHET 2 GM?

The exact dosage and duration of treatment for ROWASA SACHET 2 GM should always be determined by your doctor based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. For adults, it is typically advised to take it once daily. The contents of the sachet can be emptied directly onto the tongue and followed by water or orange juice, or mixed with yogurt and consumed immediately without chewing. It can be taken with or without food, though some advice suggests taking it one hour before or two hours after food.

What are the possible side effects of ROWASA SACHET 2 GM?

Common side effects may include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting, and flatulence (gas). Most of these are usually temporary and do not require medical attention.

More serious side effects, though less common, require immediate medical attention. These include severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (characterized by skin peeling, blistering, and rash), allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), kidney injury (decreased urine output, swelling), liver problems, and acute intolerance syndrome (severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, headache, or rash). If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is ROWASA SACHET 2 GM safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: ROWASA SACHET 2 GM should generally not be used during pregnancy unless deemed absolutely necessary by your doctor, who will weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Untreated inflammatory bowel disease itself can pose risks to a pregnancy. While most studies on mesalazine have not reliably shown an increased risk of major birth defects, some data suggest a possible slightly higher chance of heart defects, which can be difficult to interpret due to other medications or the underlying disease.

Breastfeeding: Mesalazine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally not recommended for nursing mothers unless essential, and your doctor will assess the benefits and risks. If prescribed, monitor the infant for any signs of diarrhea, and discontinue breastfeeding and consult your doctor if such symptoms occur.

Can ROWASA SACHET 2 GM be taken with other medications?

You should inform your doctor about all other medications, herbal preparations, and supplements you are taking. ROWASA SACHET 2 GM should be used with caution with:

• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs): Concurrent use may increase the risk of kidney impairment.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine): May increase the risk of blood disorders.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): The effect of blood thinners might be enhanced, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may decrease the absorption of mesalazine, making it less effective. Avoid taking ROWASA if you are allergic to sulfasalazine, as there may be a similar reaction.

What precautions should be taken while using ROWASA SACHET 2 GM?

• Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to mesalazine, salicylates (like aspirin), or any other ingredients in the sachet.
• Exercise caution if you are elderly or have pre-existing kidney or liver problems. Severe kidney failure is a contraindication. Your doctor may monitor your kidney and liver function before and during treatment.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to help prevent kidney stones.
• Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this could lead to a return or worsening of symptoms.
• ROWASA SACHET 2 GM is generally not recommended for children below six years of age.
• Immediately stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice if you experience stomach pain, cramps, severe headache, fever, or rash.

What happens if a dose of ROWASA SACHET 2 GM is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, 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 compensate for the missed one.

How should ROWASA SACHET 2 GM be stored?

Store ROWASA SACHET 2 GM in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep the sachets out of the reach and sight of children.