What is Colazal (Balsalazide) prescribed for?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease.  And it causes irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the lining of your large intestine. Unfortunately, there is now cure. And people will usually have symptoms off and on for the rest of their life.

Ulcerative colitis is what can happen when your immune system makes a mistake. Normally it will attack invaders within your body, like the common cold for example. But when you have UC your immune system things food, good gut bacteria, and the cells that line your colon as intruders. White blood cells that usually protect you attack the lining of your colon instead. They cause the inflammation and ulcers.

Colazal is used to treat a bowel disease known as ulcerative colitis. This is an inflammatory bowel disease. It causes irritation, inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine.  This medication helps to reduce many of its symptoms, such as; diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.  Overall, it works by decreasing swelling in the colon.

This medication comes in a singular dose, which is 750mg. Remember your dose is based on your medical background and your overall response to the treatment. If your doctor or pharmacist has given you some information in the form of a pamphlet, take the time to read up on this drug, and if you have any questions or concerns regarding this medication, please consult your doctor.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food. Usually 3 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. If you have any issues with swallowing the capsules, you may open them and sprinkle the contents into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow the food and medication mixture right away. Do not prepare a supply in advance.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment.  Use this medication regularly to gain the full benefit. Inform your doctor if your medical condition worsens or fails to improve after several weeks.

Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are allergic to Balsalazide, or to other aminosalicylates (such as mesalamine, olsalazine); or to salicylates (e.g., aspirin, salsalate); or to sulfasalazine; or if you have any other allergies in general.

Before using this medication it is always best to go over your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have had the following; a certain stomach/intestinal condition (pyloric stenosis), liver disease, kidney disease.

This medication contains sodium. Therefore, if you are on a salt restricted diet, your perhaps you have a condition that may conflict with salt intake, speak with your doctor right away.

This medication is similar to aspirin. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin or aspirin-related medications (e.g., salicylates) if they have chickenpox, flu, or any undiagnosed illness, or if they have just been given a live virus vaccine (e.g., varicella vaccine), without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.

Headache, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, sore throat, trouble sleeping, or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

There is some serious side effects to this medication, and if you are encountering any of them, notify your doctor right away. These side effects are listed below;  signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, unusual/extreme tiredness, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, burning/painful urination, fast/pounding heartbeat.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.