-2%
Mesalazine mainly acts locally in the intestinal mucosa rather than producing significant systemic effects. In inflammatory bowel disease, the production of arachidonic acid metabolites, including prostaglandins and leukotrienes, is increased. Mesalazine helps reduce intestinal inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase activity and decreasing prostaglandin production in the colon.
Using Mesalazine together with other potentially nephrotoxic medicines, such as NSAIDs or azathioprine, may increase the risk of kidney-related adverse effects.
Dosage & Administration
Tablet – Mild to Moderate Ulcerative Colitis
Adults:
The usual recommended dose is 800 mg (two 400 mg tablets) three times daily for 6 weeks. If required, the total daily dose may be increased to 4.8 g/day, given in divided doses.
Children aged 5 years and above:
- 17 to <33 kg: 800 mg in the morning and 400 mg in the evening for 6 weeks.
- 33 to <54 kg: 1,200 mg in the morning and 800 mg in the evening for 6 weeks.
Maintenance of remission in mild to moderate ulcerative colitis:
Adults generally take 1.6 g/day, divided into 2–4 doses. When necessary, the dose may be increased to 2.4 g/day in divided doses.
Maintenance of Crohn’s disease:
- Adults: 1.2–2.4 g/day in divided doses.
- Children: 400–800 mg three times daily.
Prolonged-Release Granules
Ulcerative Colitis – Adults:
- Active disease: Individualize the dose up to 4 g once daily or in 2–4 divided doses.
- Maintenance: Individualized dosing, with 2 g once daily generally recommended.
Children 6 years and older:
- Active disease: Start with 30–50 mg/kg/day in divided doses; maximum 75 mg/kg/day, without exceeding 4 g/day.
- Maintenance: Start with 15–30 mg/kg/day in divided doses; maximum total dose 2 g/day.
For children weighing up to 40 kg, approximately half the adult dose may generally be used, while children above 40 kg may receive the usual adult dose.
Elderly: Patients aged 65 years or older require careful monitoring, as reduced kidney function is more common in this age group. Renal function should be assessed before treatment, and blood cell counts should be monitored during therapy.
Pediatric: Safety and effectiveness have not been fully established according to the provided information.
The granules should not be chewed. Empty the sachet directly onto the tongue and swallow with water or orange juice. Alternatively, the granules may be mixed with yogurt and consumed immediately.