Azulfidine (Sulfasalazine) is medication used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. The delayed-release form of Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine EN-tabs) is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory types of arthritis. Azulfidine has two active components, 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), and sulfapyridine. The inflammation of ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory diseases is caused by excessive production of chemicals (for example, prostaglandins) that produce inflammation. Prostaglandins are produced by two enzymes, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, and these enzymes are over-active in individuals with ulcerative colitis. 5-ASA may reduce inflammation by blocking the activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins. Azulfidine is not a cure for ulcerative colitis, but it can help reduce flare-ups. For the treatment of arthritis, Azulfidine is successful in reducing inflammation in joints and slowing the progression of the disease by blocking cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. Azulfidine is not a cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Take this medication as directed. You should not use Azulfidine if you have porphyria or a blockage in your bladder or intestines, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs, aspirin, or similar medications called salicylates.
Common side effects caused by Azulfidine include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite, headache, rash, or low sperm count in men. Contact your doctor immediately if you show any signs of a serious infection, including fever, chills, mouth sores or red and swollen gums, unusually pale skin, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, or chest discomfort, wheezing, dry cough, or rapid weight loss. As well, contact your doctor at once if you experience a fever with headache, skin rash, and vomiting, severe nausea or vomiting, little or no urination, or urine that looks foamy, puffy eyes, swelling in your ankles or feet, sudden weight gain, or any signs of liver problems, including stomach pain, dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If you experience any serious side effects, signs of an allergic reaction, or a severe skin reaction, seek emergency medical attention.
Azulfidine Availability
Big Mountain Drug currently offers Azulfidine and Azulfidine EC, manufactured by Pfizer in Canada, both in a dosage of 500 mg tablets. We also offer the generic alternative, Sulfasalazine EC, manufactured in Canada also called PMS Sulfasalazine by PMS, available in a dosage of 500 mg and Sulfasalazine DR from India also called SAAZ DR manufactured by Ipca Laboratories Ltd.