Medical Tests and Procedures
Tell your healthcare provider that you are taking Pentasa before having any medical tests or procedures.
Mesalamine may affect the results of certain laboratory tests, so your healthcare provider should know you are using it.
Heart Problems
Pentasa can rarely cause inflammation around the heart, including myocarditis or pericarditis.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart problems. Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fast or irregular heartbeat.
Liver Problems
Use Pentasa with caution if you have liver disease or abnormal liver function.
Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function during treatment. Contact them if you develop symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual tiredness.
Allergic Reactions
Do not take Pentasa if you are allergic to mesalamine, salicylates, or any ingredient in the medication.
Seek emergency medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Kidney Problems
Pentasa can rarely cause serious kidney problems or worsen existing kidney disease.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney problems before starting treatment. Kidney function may need to be checked before and during treatment.
Acute Intolerance Syndrome
Pentasa may rarely cause a serious reaction called acute intolerance syndrome.
Symptoms may include:
- Severe abdominal cramping
- Abdominal pain
- Bloody diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Rash
These symptoms can look similar to a flare-up of ulcerative colitis. Contact your healthcare provider right away if they develop.
Drug Interactions
Pentasa may interact with certain medications, including azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, and other medicines that may affect the kidneys or blood cells.
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take before starting Pentasa.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Pentasa.
Your provider can help determine whether the benefits of treatment outweigh any possible risks.
Pancreatitis
Mesalamine has rarely been associated with pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis. Seek medical attention if you develop severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, especially if it spreads to your back or is accompanied by vomiting.
Common Side Effects
Some people may experience side effects such as:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
These effects are often mild. Contact your healthcare provider if they become severe, persistent, or difficult to manage.
Important Treatment Note
Use Pentasa exactly as prescribed and attend any recommended follow-up appointments or laboratory tests.
Regular monitoring can help your healthcare provider make sure the medication is working safely and effectively.
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