Balsalazide
Uses of Balsalazide
Balsalazide is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum.
Balsalazide is commonly used for:
• Active ulcerative colitis: Reduces inflammation, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea during a flare-up of the condition.
• Reduction of rectal bleeding and mucus discharge: Helps reduce bleeding and mucus in stools caused by inflammation of the colon lining.
• Abdominal cramping linked to colitis: Eases cramping and discomfort caused by inflamed bowel tissue.
Side effects of Balsalazide
Headaches
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Nausea and vomiting
Joint pain
How Balsalazide works
Balsalazide works by delivering an anti-inflammatory medicine directly to the colon, where it is needed most.
Balsalazide itself is inactive until it reaches the colon. There, bacteria in the gut break it down to release mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid), the active component. Mesalazine works by reducing the production of chemicals in the body called prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation in the lining of the colon.
By lowering inflammation directly at the site of disease, Balsalazide helps reduce symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding, which promotes healing of the colonic lining.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
BAMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Balsalazide is available for oral use as a capsule.
Age and Dose Restrictions
Balsalazide is suitable for use in adults and children aged 5 years and older.
Contraindications
This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to balsalazide, salicylates, or any component of its formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, as well as those with pyloric stenosis.
Other Medications to Avoid
This medicine may interact with other mesalamine-containing products (such as sulfasalazine and olsalazine), nephrotoxic agents including NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), and azathioprine. It may also interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin) due to an increased risk of bleeding.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Taking more than the prescribed dose of Balsalazide may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach pain. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.
If you miss a dose of Balsalazide, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
For mild headaches or abdominal discomfort while on Balsalazide, consider taking the capsules with food if not already doing so.
Drinking adequate water may help manage minor side effects like nausea.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Balsalazide is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, individual responses can vary so it is crucial to know how this medication affects you before engaging in such activities.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Balsalazide is classified as pregnancy category B. It should only be used during pregnancy if needed and recommended by a doctor.
Caution should be exercised when Balsalazide is administered during breastfeeding due to the potential passage of its metabolite into breast milk.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with a history of liver disease should use Balsalazide with caution due to the potential for hepatic toxicity.
Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary while on this medication, particularly for elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal conditions.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Maintaining adequate hydration is important for individuals taking Balsalazide, especially due to its effects on gastrointestinal function.
A diet rich in fibre may benefit individuals with ulcerative colitis by promoting healthy bowel movements and reducing inflammation risk.
Stress management techniques such as meditation or gentle yoga can be beneficial, as stress can exacerbate ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Avoiding NSAIDs can help reduce the risk of aggravating ulcerative colitis symptoms while taking Balsalazide.
Frequently asked questions
Will Balsalazide cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms?
No, Balsalazide is not known to cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms. It is an anti-inflammatory medication and not a narcotic or addictive substance.
How long does Balsalazide stay in the body after stopping the medication?
The exact half-life of Balsalazide is not well established. However, its active metabolite, mesalamine, has a half-life of approximately 1 to 4 hours. Thus, it may take several hours for the majority of Balsalazide to be eliminated from your system.
Can I use Balsalazide if I am allergic to aspirin?
You must disclose any allergies, including an allergy to aspirin, to your doctor before starting Balsalazide. This medicine should be used with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to salicylates like aspirin.
Are there any natural alternatives to Balsalazide?
While certain dietary changes and supplements may help manage symptoms of conditions like ulcerative colitis, they are not direct substitutes for prescription medications like Balsalazide. Always consult your doctor before starting any new diet regimen or supplement.
Does Balsalazide cause changes in appetite or weight?
Changes in appetite or weight are not typically associated with Balsalazide use. However, if you notice significant changes in your weight or eating patterns while using this medicine, please consult your doctor.
Is Balsalazide a steroid?
Balsalazide is not a steroid.
Can Balsalazide affect my mood?
There's no evidence that suggests that Balsalazide directly affects mood. However, managing a chronic illness such as ulcerative colitis can affect mood. If you're experiencing mood changes, it's important to discuss this with your doctor.
List of medicines for Balsalazide
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