Balsalazide

Dosage Forms Available

• Balsalazide is available for oral use as a capsule.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Balsalazide is suitable for use in adults and children aged 5 years and older.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to balsalazide, salicylates, or any component of its formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, as well as those with pyloric stenosis.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with other mesalamine-containing products (such as sulfasalazine and olsalazine), nephrotoxic agents including NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), and azathioprine. It may also interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin) due to an increased risk of bleeding.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Balsalazide may lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain and bloody diarrhoea. If you suspect an overdose, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

• If you miss a dose of Balsalazide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For mild headaches or abdominal discomfort while on Balsalazide, consider taking the capsules with food if not already doing so.

• Drinking adequate water may help manage minor side effects like nausea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Balsalazide is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, individual responses can vary so it is crucial to know how this medication affects you before engaging in such activities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Balsalazide is classified as pregnancy category B. It should only be used during pregnancy if needed and recommended by a doctor.

• Caution should be exercised when Balsalazide is administered during breastfeeding due to the potential passage of its metabolite into breast milk.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of liver disease should use Balsalazide with caution due to the potential for hepatic toxicity.

• Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary while on this medication, particularly for elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal conditions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining adequate hydration is important for individuals taking Balsalazide, especially due to its effects on gastrointestinal function.

• A diet rich in fibre may benefit individuals with ulcerative colitis by promoting healthy bowel movements and reducing inflammation risk.

• Stress management techniques such as meditation or gentle yoga can be beneficial, as stress can exacerbate ulcerative colitis symptoms.

• Avoiding NSAIDs can help reduce the risk of aggravating ulcerative colitis symptoms while taking Balsalazide.