Pentasa Suppository (Mesalazine) – Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis & Crohn’s Disease

Pentasa Suppository contains Mesalazine (5-ASA), an anti-inflammatory medication specifically formulated to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease affecting the rectum (proctitis). This rectal suppository delivers targeted relief by reducing inflammation in the lower bowel, effectively alleviating symptoms like diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain. As a localized treatment, It works directly at the site of inflammation with minimal systemic absorption. Patients should remain lying down for 15 minutes after insertion to ensure proper absorption. Always use under medical supervision and complete the full prescribed course to prevent symptom recurrence.

Uses of Pentasa Suppository:

– Ulcerative colitis (inflammation of colon/rectum)
– Crohn’s disease (inflammatory bowel disease)
– Proctitis (rectal inflammation)

Benefits of Pentasa Suppository:

– Targeted action: Delivers medication directly to inflamed rectal tissue
– Fast symptom relief: Reduces bleeding, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
– Minimal systemic effects: Lower risk of side effects compared to oral medications
– Maintenance therapy: Helps prevent flare-ups when used as prescribed

Side Effects of Pentasa Suppository:

Common temporary side effects may include:
– Rectal discomfort or itching
– Mild abdominal pain/flatulence
– Headache/nausea
– Skin rash

Consult your doctor if these persist or worsen.

How to Use Pentasa Suppository?

1. Remove foil wrapper before insertion
2. Insert suppository into rectum as directed
3. Remain lying down for 15 minutes to prevent leakage
4. Use typically once daily at bedtime
5. Continue treatment as prescribed – do not stop early
6. Wash hands thoroughly before and after use

How Pentasa Suppository Works?

It contains Mesalazine, an aminosalicylate that:
– Reduces inflammation in rectal/colonic lining
– Blocks prostaglandins (inflammatory chemicals)
– Promotes tissue healing in the bowel
– Minimizes ulceration and bleeding

Safety Advice:

Alcohol: No direct interaction (but may worsen colitis)
Pregnancy: Consult doctor – potential fetal risk
Breastfeeding: Unsafe – may pass into milk
Kidney Disease: Use with caution (avoid in severe cases)
Liver Disease: Dose adjustment may be needed
Drug Interactions: May interact with azathioprine, mercaptopurine

What If You Miss a Dose?

Insert suppository when remembered unless close to next dose time. Never use two doses to compensate.

FAQs:

Q1. Can I stop Pentasa when symptoms improve?

No – continue full course as prescribed to prevent relapse. Sudden stoppage may worsen condition.

Q2. Is Pentasa safe for piles/hemorrhoids?

No – it’s specifically for inflammatory bowel disease. Consult your doctor for proper hemorrhoid treatment.

Q3. Can I drink alcohol while using Pentasa?

Alcohol may irritate your bowel – it’s best avoided during colitis treatment.

Q4. What’s the best time to use Pentasa Suppository?

Typically at bedtime to allow overnight absorption while lying down.

Q5. How long until I see improvement?

Symptom relief often begins within days, but full healing may take weeks of regular use.

Q6. Can Pentasa affect kidney function?

Rarely – kidney monitoring may be needed in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Q7. What if the suppository comes out after insertion?

Reinsert a new suppository and remain lying down longer (30+ minutes) to ensure absorption.