mesalamine (rectal) Health Article

How should I use mesalamine rectal?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Mesalamine rectal comes with patient instructions for using either the rectal suppository or the rectal enema. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Do not take mesalamine rectal by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

Try to empty your bowel and bladder just before using the mesalamine suppository or enema. It may be best to use this medicine at bedtime.

Remove the outer wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt in your hands.

For best results from the suppository, lie down after inserting it and hold in the suppository for one to three hours. The suppository will melt quickly once inserted and you should feel little or no discomfort while holding it in. Avoid using the bathroom during this time.

Shake the rectal enema liquid well just before each use.

For best results from the enema, stay lying down for at least 30 minutes after using the enema to allow the liquid to distribute throughout your intestines. Try to hold in the enema all night if possible. Avoid using the bathroom during this time.

The rectal enema liquid may darken in color after it has been removed from the foil pouch. This should not affect the medicine. However, throw away any enema liquid that has turned dark brown.

Store the rectal enema at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the rectal suppositories at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate or freeze them.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Try to use the medicine at a time when you can lie down afterward and hold the medicine in. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of mesalamine rectal is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking mesalamine rectal?

Avoid getting the rectal suppositories or enema liquid on clothing, flooring, painted surfaces, vinyl, marble, granite, and other surfaces. Mesalamine rectal products may stain surfaces.

What are the possible side effects of mesalamine rectal?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using mesalamine rectal and call your doctor at once if you have severe stomach pain, cramping, fever, headache, and bloody diarrhea.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, gas;

• fever, sore throat, or other flu symptoms;

• rectal pain, constipation;

• headache or dizziness;

• tired feeling; or

• skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect mesalamine rectal?

There may be other drugs that can interact with mesalamine rectal. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about mesalamine rectal.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.