Salazopyrin

Common Name: sulfasalazine

How does Salazopyrin work?

Sulfasalazine belongs to the class of medications called anti-inflammatories. It is used to treat inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis, proctitis, and Crohn's disease. It helps control symptoms by reducing inflammation in the bowel. The enteric-coated tablets can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis when treatment with other medications has not helped. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Salazopyrin?

The dose of sulfasalazine varies widely according to condition being treated and the needs of the person. The dose is usually started at a low level and increased to the dose that is most effective. Side effects are more likely to occur with doses of 4 g (4,000 mg) daily or more. Children are treated on the basis of body weight. The uncoated tablets should be taken with a meal if possible. 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 ones given here, 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. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Salazopyrin come in?

Salazopyrin® is available as tablets or enteric-coated tablets. Enteric-coated tablets: Each orange, elliptical, enteric-coated tablet, engraved with "KPh" on one side and "102" on the other side, contains sulfasalazine 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: beeswax, carnauba wax, cellulose acetate phthalate, glyceryl monostearate, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and talc. Tablets: Each yellow-orange, round tablet, engraved with "KPh" on one side and "101" and a score on the other side, contains sulfasalazine 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: silicon dioxide, starch, and magnesium stearate. This medication does not contain tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Salazopyrin?

Sulfasalazine should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to sulfonamides or salicylates (e.g., ASA) or any of the ingredients of the medication is under two years of age has intestinal and urinary obstructions (blockage) has porphyria (a type of liver condition), as this type of medication has been reported to bring on an attack. has acute asthmatic attacks, hives, rhinitis, or other allergic symptoms that are brought on by ASA or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Salazopyrin?

Allergies: People who are allergic to furosemide, thiazide water pills, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may also be allergic to this medication. Fertility: Infertility had been observed for some men treated with sulfasalazine. Stopping the medication appears to reverse these effects. Fluid intake: While using sulfasalazine, drink an adequate amount of fluids to minimize the risk of crystals in the urine and the forming of kidney stones. Laboratory tests: You will probably have regular blood tests while you are taking this medication. Liver and kidney function: Sulfasalazine should be used with caution by patients with reduced kidney or liver function. Staining: Sulfasalazine may produce an orange-yellow colour in the urine. Similar discoloration of the skin and yellow staining of soft contact lenses have occasionally been reported. Tablets in stool: If you notice intact enteric-coated tablets in the stool, contact your doctor. Pregnancy: Sulfasalazine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. If you are or may be pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication. Breast-feeding: Sulfasalazine passes into breast milk and should be taken with caution by nursing women.