What is Rowasa Enema (Mesalamine) prescribed for?

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease. It causes irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the lining of your large intestine. This disease happens when your immune system makes a mistake. Normally it attacks invader sin your body, much like the common cold. But when you have UC, your immune system thinks food, good gut bacteria, and the cells that line your colon are the intruders. Proctitis is defined as inflammation of the anus and lining of the rectum. It can affect you in the following ways; pain during a bowel movement, soreness in the anal and rectal area, feeling of not completing a bowel movement, involuntary spasms and cramping during a bowel movement, as well as bleeding. Proctitis can last for a short period or it can become a chronic condition.

This medication is used for the treatment for certain types of bowel disease. Some examples are; distal ulcerative colitis, proctosigmoiditis, and proctitis. While it does not cure these conditions, it may relieve mild to moderate pain and decrease the frequency of diarrhea and bloody stools that have been caused by the irritation and swelling in the rectum.

Mesalamine is an aminosalicylate anti-inflammatory drug. It is believed to work by blocking the production of certain natural chemicals that cause the issues of swelling and pain.

Go over any kind of medication your doctor may have provided you with, and read any material they may have given you as well. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your doctor.

This medication is usually taken once daily at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor.  Remember that dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to therapy.

This medication works at its best if you have a bowel movement before using it. Shake the bottle well. By holding the bottle by the neck, remove the cover from the applicator tip. Lie on your left side with your right knee bent. Insert the tip of the bottle into the rectum, point towards the naval. Then gently squeeze the entire contents of the bottle, one finished remove the bottle. Than remain in that position for 30 minutes. Once done, throw away the empty bottle and try to keep the medication in the rectum for 8 hours.

Keep in mind this medication may stain surfaces that it touches, that includes clothing, floor and counter surfaces.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Mesalamine; or to other medications that are broken down into mesalamine (such as balsalazide, sulfasalazine, olsalazine); or to other salicylates (such as aspirin); or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

It is best to inform your doctor of your medical history. Therefore, it is best to speak with your doctor if you have ever suffered from any of the following; asthma, kidney problems, liver disease, pancreas problems (pancreatitis), inflammation of the sac around the heart (pericarditis), skin problems (such as atopic dermatitis, eczema).

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

While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Rectal pain, pain while inserting the bottle tip, gas, and joint/leg pain may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.

Infrequently, this medication may make symptoms of your condition worse rather than better (acute intolerance syndrome or sensitivity reaction). Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of these unlikely but serious side effects: worsening stomach pain/cramping, worsening bloody diarrhea, fever, severe/prolonged headache.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, shortness of breath, severe stomach/abdominal pain (especially if spreading to the back), yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: 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.