Why is this medication prescribed?

Canasa (mesalamine) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Mesalamine, the active ingredient in Canasa, belongs to a class of medications known as aminosalicylates, which help to reduce inflammation in the bowel.

How should this medicine be used?

Canasa is a medication used to treat ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Here’s how Canasa should typically be used:

• Dosage: The usual dose of Canasa is one 1000 mg suppository inserted into the rectum once daily at bedtime. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage for your condition.
• Preparation: Before inserting the suppository, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Insertion: Follow these steps for inserting the Canasa suppository:
  • Remove the suppository from its foil wrapper.
  • You may moisten the suppository with water or a water-based lubricating gel to ease insertion.
  • Lie on your left side with your lower leg straightened out and your upper leg bent forward towards your stomach.
  • Gently insert the suppository into the rectum with the pointed end first. Insert it as far as it will comfortably go.
  • Remain lying down for a few minutes to allow the suppository to dissolve.
• Aftercare: After inserting the suppository, wash your hands thoroughly again. Try to retain the suppository in your rectum for as long as possible to allow the medication to be absorbed. Generally, it’s recommended to retain it for 1 to 3 hours, or ideally overnight.
• Consistency: Use Canasa regularly as prescribed by your doctor to get the most benefit. It is typically used for short-term relief during flare-ups of ulcerative colitis.
• Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments with your doctor as scheduled to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
• Additional Tips: Store Canasa suppositories at room temperature away from moisture and heat. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use extra suppositories to make up for a missed dose.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the use of Canasa. If you have any questions or concerns about using Canasa, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Proctitis: Canasa may be used to treat inflammation specifically in the rectum (proctitis), which can occur in conditions other than ulcerative colitis, such as radiation proctitis.
• Crohn’s Disease: In some cases, Canasa may be used to treat mild to moderate forms of Crohn’s disease, although its effectiveness in this condition is generally less established compared to ulcerative colitis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Canasa:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to mesalamine or any other medications.
• Kidney Function: Canasa can affect kidney function, especially if you already have kidney problems. Your doctor may need to monitor your kidney function periodically.
• Liver Function: If you have liver disease or impaired liver function, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your condition.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Canasa during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established, so your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against any risks.
• Interactions: Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as Canasa may interact with certain drugs.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to evaluate the effectiveness of Canasa and to check for any potential side effects or complications.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose of Canasa, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Canasa, which may include headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, and worsening of ulcerative colitis symptoms. Contact your doctor if you experience severe side effects or if your condition worsens.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Canasa, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or express concerns you may have about the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Canasa. However, maintaining a healthy diet that is appropriate for managing ulcerative colitis may help in conjunction with medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Canasa, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Canasa (mesalamine) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of Canasa include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are a common side effect reported by some users.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly.
• Abdominal Pain: Mild abdominal discomfort or cramping can occur, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
• Rectal Pain or Discomfort: Since Canasa is administered as a suppository, it may cause temporary rectal pain or irritation.
• Flatulence (Gas): Increased gas production or bloating may occur.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, have been reported.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild nausea.
• Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or fatigue can occur, although this is less common.
• Skin Reactions: Rarely, Canasa may cause skin rash or itching.
• Worsening Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: In some cases, Canasa may initially worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis, although this is uncommon.

Serious side effects from Canasa are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), and signs of pancreatitis (such as severe stomach/abdominal pain, severe nausea/vomiting, fever, rapid heartbeat).

If you experience any serious side effects or any other unusual symptoms while using Canasa, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Always discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Canasa:

• Storage: Store Canasa suppositories at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing in the bathroom. Keep the medication in its original packaging until ready to use.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Canasa suppositories according to local regulations and guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose of Canasa or experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention or call your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include severe headache, dizziness, confusion, ringing in your ears, vision problems, severe stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fast or slow heart rate, fainting, or seizure.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Canasa is effective in treating mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and certain other inflammatory conditions of the colon and rectum. It helps reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with these conditions.
• Routine Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your response to Canasa, adjust your treatment plan if needed, and check for any potential side effects or complications.
• Patient Education: Understand how to use Canasa correctly as a suppository. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding dosage, frequency of use, and duration of treatment.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, kidney problems, liver disease, or other medical conditions, before starting Canasa.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as Canasa may interact with certain drugs.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using Canasa if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Travel: Carry Canasa with you if you are traveling. Keep it in a cool, dry place and ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip.
• Regular Use: Use Canasa regularly as prescribed by your doctor to get the most benefit from it. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without your doctor’s approval.
• Contact Information: Keep your healthcare provider’s contact information readily available in case you have questions or experience any unexpected reactions while using Canasa.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use, storage, and disposal of Canasa. If you have any concerns or questions about this medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist for clarification and advice tailored to your specific needs.