Balsalazide is a medication primarily used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon and rectum, helping to alleviate symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.
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Balsalazide is converted into mesalamine (5-ASA) in the colon, which exerts its anti-inflammatory effects locally.
It is often prescribed when other treatments for ulcerative colitis have not been effective or are not well-tolerated.
Common side effects include headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea; severe side effects can include liver issues and worsening of colitis symptoms.
Dietary considerations for patients on Balsalazide may include avoiding foods that exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms like high-fiber foods during flare-ups.
Balsalazide is taken orally, usually three times a day, with or without food, and adherence to the dosing schedule is important for effectiveness.
Review Questions
What condition is Balsalazide primarily used to treat?
How does Balsalazide work in the body to reduce inflammation?
What are some common dietary considerations for patients taking Balsalazide?
Related terms
UlcerativeColitis: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract.
Mesalamine: An anti-inflammatory drug used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.
InflammatoryBowelDisease: A term encompassing disorders involving chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.