Mesalazine: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects in Pakistan

Mesalazine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Price in Pakistan

1. Quick Info (Mukhtasir Maloomat)

2. What is Mesalazine? (Mesalazine kya hai)

Mesalazine belongs to the class of drugs known as aminosalicylates, which are used primarily to treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. This medication works by reducing inflammation in the lining of the intestines, which helps alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Mesalazine is typically prescribed for patients who experience chronic or relapsing symptoms of these conditions, where ongoing management with anti-inflammatory agents is necessary.

Compared to other drugs in its class, Mesalazine is favoured for its direct action on the gastrointestinal tract and its comparatively mild side effect profile. It is often used as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and can be effective in maintaining remission. Regular kidney function monitoring is required during long-term use, as mesalazine can occasionally affect the kidneys. Always take Mesalazine as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

3. Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

• Induction and maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis
• Management of Crohn's disease
• Prevention of colorectal cancer risk in long-term inflammatory bowel disease

4. Who Should Take (Kis ko leni chahiye)

• Patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis
• Patients with Crohn's disease under specialist supervision
• Patients in remission from ulcerative colitis requiring maintenance therapy

5. When NOT to Take (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

• If you are allergic to mesalazine, salicylates, or sulphasalazine
• If you have severe kidney disease
• If you have severe liver disease

6. Dosage (Kitni leni hai)

• As prescribed by doctor

• As prescribed based on condition severity and response

• Do not exceed the recommended limit

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose is close, skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

7. How to Take (Kaise leni hai)

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor

• At the same time each day

• Take with food to reduce stomach discomfort

• Swallow tablets whole — do not crush or chew unless advised

8. Best Time (Kab leni chahiye)

• Take with meals to reduce nausea

• Same time daily to maintain a routine

9. Empty Stomach or After Food (Khali pait ya khane ke baad)

Taking Mesalazine with food can reduce stomach discomfort. However, follow your doctor's specific instructions on timing and food requirements.

10. Warnings (Ihtiyat)

• Do not use Mesalazine if you are allergic to mesalazine or any salicylate
• Kidney function must be monitored regularly — report any change in urination to your doctor
• If symptoms worsen (increased diarrhoea, fever, abdominal pain) during treatment, contact your doctor immediately

11. Precautions (Ahm ehtiyaat)

• Store in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of the reach of children

• Regular kidney function and blood count tests are recommended during long-term use

12. Side Effects (Nuksanat)

• Abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, headache

• Mesalazine-induced nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), blood disorders (agranulocytosis), serious skin reactions

13. Drug Interactions (Dawaon ke sath reaction)

• Azathioprine and mercaptopurine toxicity may be increased when used with mesalazine
• NSAIDs may worsen the kidney effects of mesalazine
• Anticoagulant therapy may need closer monitoring

14. When to See Doctor (Kab doctor ke paas jayein)

• Worsening diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or blood in stool during treatment
• Reduced urination, swelling, or unusual tiredness (signs of kidney problems)
• Severe rash, fever, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care immediately

15. Alternatives (Sasti Dusri Dawaein)

16. Price in Pakistan (Price kitni hai)

(Note: Price depends on the pharmacy and pack size.)

17. FAQs (Aksar poochay jane walay sawalat)

Q: Mesalazine kis kaam aati hai?

A: Mesalazine is prescribed by a doctor to treat inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. See the uses section on PakVita for full details.

Q: Kitni mg ki Mesalazine hoti hai?

A: Mesalazine is available in 400mg and 800mg tablets. The exact strength varies by brand and form. Follow the pack label and your doctor's advice.

Q: Pakistan mein price kitni hai?

A: Mesalazine (Masacol) 400mg (30 tablets) is available in Pakistan for approximately Rs. 930 to Rs. 1,120 depending on the pharmacy.

Q: Pregnancy mein safe hai?

A: Mesalazine may be used in pregnancy under medical supervision but the decision must be made by your doctor. Never self-medicate during pregnancy.

Q: Nuksanat kya hain?

A: Common side effects include abdominal discomfort, nausea, and headache. Kidney function should be monitored regularly. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

18. Medical Review (Medical jaiza)

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-07-09

19. Disclaimer (Zaroori tanbeeh)

The information on this page is for awareness only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. PakVita is not responsible for any harm.