Dipentum

Common Name: olsalazine

How does Dipentum work?

This medication is used to treat ulcerative colitis, a disease involving inflammation of the bowel. It is used to prevent attacks of the disease, and for the long-term maintenance of remission in people with ulcerative colitis. Olsalazine is also used to treat mild to moderate attacks sometimes in combination with a class of anti-inflammatory medications called corticosteroids. It works by decreasing inflammation in the bowel. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions not listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Dipentum?

The recommended adult dose for treatment of attacks is usually increased slowly over a one-week period starting with 500 mg (2 capsules) daily and increasing to an average adult dose of 2 capsules four times daily. It should be taken at regular intervals together with meals. The recommended adult dose for prevention of attacks is 500 mg (2 capsules) two times daily. The dose for children is based on the age and weight of the child. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the one above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a scheduled dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Dipentum come in?

Each opaque, beige, hard gelatin capsule contains olsalazine 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include magnesium stearate.

What should I NOT take with Dipentum?

Anyone with an allergy to olsalazine, salicylates (e.g., ASA), or any ingredients of this medication should not use olsalazine.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Dipentum?

General: All 5-ASA preparations have been reported to cause a worsening of colitis symptoms in less than 1% of patients with ulcerative colitis. This reaction may also occur with olsalazine treatment due to its similarities to 5-ASA medications. Ulcerative colitis rarely remits completely and the risk of relapse can be substantially reduced by continuous long-term use of olsalazine. Take olsalazine regularly with meals, not more than four capsules at any one time. This medication should be taken in evenly divided doses. Pregnancy: The safety of olsalazine use by pregnant women has not been established. It should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether olsalazine is passes into breast milk. It should be used by nursing mothers only if absolutely necessary. Children: The safety and effectiveness of olsalazine for children has not been established. Its use by this age group is not recommended.