Colazal (Balsalazide)
Colazal (Balsalazide)
Colazal (Balsalazide) is a prescription medication used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon, helping to relieve symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain. Colazal is formulated specifically to release its active ingredient directly in the colon, where its therapeutic effects are needed most.
Why Choose Colazal (Balsalazide)?
- Targeted Relief: Specifically designed to act on the colon, providing targeted relief where it’s needed.
- Reduced Flare-ups: Helps decrease the frequency of ulcerative colitis flare-ups.
- Improved Quality of Life: Aims to improve daily functioning and quality of life by controlling symptoms.
- Ease of Use: Available in capsule form, taken orally.
How to Use Colazal (Balsalazide)?
- Dosage Instructions: Take Colazal exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The typical dosage for adults is three capsules taken three times a day.
- Consistency: It’s crucial to take Colazal at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medication in your body.
- Swallow Whole: The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken. This ensures that the medication is released in the colon, where it’s needed.
- With or Without Food: Colazal can be taken with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, try taking it with food to see if it helps.
- Full Treatment Course: Continue taking Colazal for the full length of time prescribed, even if symptoms improve. Stopping early may result in a return or worsening of symptoms.
Important Safety Information about Colazal
- Pre-existing Conditions: Not recommended for patients with pyloric stenosis or those allergic to salicylates.
- Pregnancy and Nursing: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Interaction with Other Medications: Always tell your healthcare provider about other medications you are taking, as Colazal can interact with them.
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Generic Name | Balsalazide |
| Brand Names | Colazal |
| Drug Class | Aminosalicylate |
| Indications | Treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis |
| Formulation | Capsule |
| Dosage | Typically 750 mg capsules are taken three times a day, totaling 2,250 mg daily |
| How It Works | Converts to mesalamine in the colon, reducing inflammation |
| Administration | Oral |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, respiratory infection, joint pain |
| Contraindications | Known hypersensitivity to balsalazide or salicylates, or to components of the product |
| Pregnancy Category | Category B (no evidence of risk in studies, but caution advised) |
| Interactions | May interact with other drugs including NSAIDs, azathioprine, mercaptopurine |
| Monitoring Required | Kidney function tests, liver function tests, complete blood count |
| Special Considerations | Should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, avoid the use of alcohol to prevent increased side effect risk |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Colazal (Balsalazide) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Respiratory infection
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Colazal (Balsalazide)?
You can order Colazal (Balsalazide) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
