Rowasa

Why should Rowasa not be prescribed?

These products should not be used by anyone who is allergic or sensitive to mesalamine or their other ingredients.

Pentasa, Canasa, and Asacol should not be used if you are allergic or sensitive to salicylates (aspirin), foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Special warnings about Rowasa

Your doctor should check your kidney function while you are taking mesalamine, especially if you have a history of kidney disease or you are using other anti-inflammatory drugs such as Dipentum.

Because older adults tend to have weaker kidneys, mesalamine is more likely to trigger side effects within this age group. The drug also seems more prone to cause blood disorders in older adults. If you are 65 or older, be sure to tell the doctor about any change in your health.

You should use mesalamine cautiously if you are allergic to sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). If you develop a rash or fever, you should stop using Rowasa and notify your doctor.

Canasa suppositories contain salicylates (including aspirin) and saturated vegetable fatty acids. If you are sensitive to one of these components, contact your doctor to discuss other options.

Some people using mesalamine have developed flare-ups of their colitis. Inflammation of the pancreas has also been reported.

Rare cases of pericarditis, in which the membrane surrounding the heart becomes inflamed, have been reported with products containing mesalamine. Symptoms may include chest, neck, and shoulder pain, and shortness of breath.

Rowasa Suspension Enema contains a sulfite that may cause allergic reactions in some people. These reactions may include shock and severe, possibly fatal asthma attacks. Most people aren't sensitive to sulfites. However, some people with asthma might be sensitive and should take any medication containing sulfites cautiously.

Rowasa Suspension Enema may stain clothes and fabrics. Canasa Suppositories can also stain surfaces, including marble, granite, plastic, and painted surfaces.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Rowasa

If these products are taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Rowasa Suspension Enema, Rowasa Suppositories, and Canasa Suppositories with sulfasalazine (Azulfidine).