Overview: Aminosalicylates do not suppress the immune system, so they reduce inflammation without decreasing the body’s ability to fight infection. They act locally on the bowel wall, so they produce less side effects. These are typically used as a first line therapy to treat mild disease due to their minimal side effects. They are much more effective in colitis vs Crohn’s, but can still play a role. Types: Mesalamine/mesalazine: anti-inflammatory drug similar to aspirin Also referred to as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA Can be administered orally as a pill, as a suppository, or as an enema (liquid or foam) Lots of different brand names and available in different controlled-release or delayed-release formulations Source: Page 98 of Crohn’s and Colitis for Dummies Mesalamines Common Brand Name Formulation Use Apriso Capsule Colitis Asacol, Asacol HD Tablet Colitis Cannasa Suppository Proctitis Colazal Capsule Colitis Dipentum Capsule Colitis Delzicol Tablet Colitis Lialda Tablet Colitis Pentasa Capsule Colitis Rowasa Suspension enema Proctosigmoiditis Note: suppositories are inserted into the rectum where it dissolves or melts. They work locally and are especially helpful for proctitis or when you are unable to take anything by mouth. Nausea and pain medications are often given via suppository. Sulfasalazine: […]
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