Pentasa
Pentasa is an enema that treats inflammation in the large intestine and rectum, such as in ulcerative colitis.
Form
peräruiskesuspensio
Strength
1 g / 100 ml
Active Ingredient
Mesalazine
Manufacturer
Ferring Lääkkeet Oy
How to Use
Dosage
One enema in the evening at bedtime, usually for 2-3 weeks.
Method
Empty your bowels before use. Take the bottle from the foil pouch, shake well, and open. Lie on your left side, gently insert the tip into your rectum, and slowly squeeze the contents. Stay lying down for 5-10 minutes. Protect bedding and clothes from stains.
Important
Use a maximum of one enema per day, as directed by your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
COMMON
- •headache
- •diarrhea
- •stomach pain
- •nausea
- •vomiting
- •flatulence
- •rash
- •rectal discomfort
- •irritation at the application site
- •anal itching
- •feeling of needing to pass stool
RARE
- •dizziness
- •inflammation of the heart muscle or sac around the heart
- •increased amylase levels (pancreatic enzyme)
- •pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- •skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
- •changes in blood count (e.g., anemia)
- •allergic reaction (e.g., rash)
- •drug fever
- •tingling and numbness in hands and feet
- •allergic lung inflammation
- •allergic lung reaction (e.g., shortness of breath and cough)
- •inflammation of the entire large intestine
- •liver and kidney problems
- •temporary hair loss
- •muscle and joint pain
- •reddish rash
- •urine discoloration
- •temporary decrease in sperm count
- •kidney stones and associated kidney pain
Important Warnings
- If you are allergic to mesalazine (the active ingredient), salicylates, or any other ingredients in Pentasa.
- If you have severe liver or kidney disease.
- If you are allergic to sulfasalazine.
- If you have a lung disease, especially asthma.
- If you are taking medicines that may affect kidney function, or medicines like azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, or thioguanine.
Show 4 more warnings
- Stop using Pentasa and contact your doctor immediately if you suddenly get cramps, stomach pain, fever, a bad headache, or a rash.
- Drink enough fluids, as kidney stones can form. Symptoms may include pain in the side of your stomach and blood in your urine.
- Stop using Pentasa and seek immediate medical help if you develop severe skin reactions, such as target-like rashes, peeling skin, blisters, or sores in your mouth, throat, nose, genitals, or eyes.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe or recurrent headaches, vision problems, or ringing or buzzing in your ears during treatment.
Use in Elderly Patients
Category C
Suitable for older adults, with specific precautions. Consider renal impairment. Do not use in severe renal impairment. Remember blood tests to monitor safety. (updated 20.5.2024)