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Home > Drug Category > Arthritis & Anti-Inflammatory Medications > Colazal and Equivalent

Colazal Information

Colazal (Balsalazide) is used to treat mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis, a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis often leads to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), and an urgent need to defecate, with periods of flare-ups and remission. Colazal is not only effective in treating active flare-up of ulcerative colitis, it is also useful in maintaining remission when symptoms are less noticeable. It contains balsalazide as its active ingredient, which belongs to a class of medications called aminosalicylates or 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) compounds. Colazal works by delivering its active ingredient, balsalazide, directly to the colon, where it exerts its anti-inflammatory effects. Once in the colon, balsalazide is acted upon by bacteria and subsequently broken down into its active form, mesalamine (5-ASA), which is believed to reduce inflammation by inhibiting specific chemical signals and processes involved in the inflammatory response. This action helps alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

Colazal Side Effects

Like all medications, balsalazide may cause some side effects. Some common mild side effects include headache, loss of appetite, mild abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting and sore throat. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Burning or painful urination, frequent urination, body swelling or any other sign of kidney problems;
• Severe skin reaction such skin rash or blistering;
• Signs of heart problems such as abnormal heartbeat, and chest pain;
• Signs of liver damage such as severe abdominal pain, yellow eyes, and skin;
• Worsening of your ulcerative colitis symptoms

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Colazal Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to balsalazide, or any other ingredients in Colazal. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Abdominal conditions such as pyloric stenosis;
• Heart disease, such as heart failure;
• Kidney disease, including kidney stones;
• Liver disease;
• Skin problems such as atopic dermatitis and eczema;
• Various infections, such as chickenpox and the flu.

This medication can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen when outdoors. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Inform your healthcare provider that you are using this medicine before getting a vaccine as this medicine can interact with some live vaccines. Balsalazide may also interact with other medications or substances such as macrolides (such as azithromycin and erythromycin), baricitinib, dichlorphenamide, and probenecid. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Colazal to prevent potential drug interactions. This medication is available in capsule form for oral intake as directed by your doctor. The usual recommended adult dose is 2.25 g (three 750 mg capsules) three times daily for up to 8-12 weeks. This medicine is not recommended for use for more than 12 weeks as its safety and efficacy have not been established beyond 12 weeks. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosing schedule for you. Take this medication with plenty of fluids while taking this medicine. Swallow these capsules whole and avoid crushing or chewing them. However, if you have difficulty swallowing this medication, open the capsule, sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce, and swallow it immediately. Use this medication regularly and at the same time every day to maintain its effectiveness. Store it in a cool, dry place, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Colazal?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Colazal.