Balsalazide (Colazol)

What is Balsalazide and What is it Used For?

Balsalazide is a mesalamine drug. The bacteria in the colon activate this drug, and the drug is released there to reduce inflammation in the lining of the colon. It is used to treat ulcerative colitis and may also be used to treat Crohn’s colitis.

What Do I Need to Know Before Taking Balsalazide?

• It is important to take this drug at evenly spaced intervals.
• Balsalazide may be taken with or without food or milk.
• This drug should not be taken if you have had a reaction to Balsalazide or mesalamine (Asacol®, Pentasa®, Canasa®, Rowasa®), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®) or salicylates (aspirin).
• Blood testing may be necessary so your doctor can monitor you.

What Are the Food and Drug Interactions?

There are no known interactions between this medication and food and drinks.

Are There Any Drug Interactions with Balsalazide?

There are no known reactions between Balsalazide and other drugs.

What Are the Side Effects?

Minor

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Stomach cramps
• Muscle aches

Major

• Respiratory infections
• Fever
• Increased blood in stool

Rev. 11/2013

This document is intended to provide health related information so that you may be better informed. It is not a substitute for a doctor's medical advice and should not be relied upon for treatment for specific medical conditions. Please read your prescription label for additional drug information.