Why is this medication prescribed?

Colazal (generic name: balsalazide) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, which is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It helps to reduce symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain associated with ulcerative colitis.

How should this medicine be used?

How Colazal should be used:

• Dosage: The typical dosage of Colazal is usually 6.75 grams per day, divided into three doses (2.25 grams each). Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your condition.
• Administration: Colazal is taken orally. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.
• Timing: It’s usually recommended to take Colazal with meals.
• Duration: Continue taking Colazal as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication abruptly may cause your symptoms to worsen.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your response to Colazal and to check for any side effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Storage: Store Colazal capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the use of Colazal during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed based on potential risks and benefits.
• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, and joint pain. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and worsening of colitis symptoms.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Colazal for detailed information on its use, possible side effects, and precautions. If you have any concerns or questions about taking Colazal, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Crohn’s Disease: While primarily used for ulcerative colitis, Colazal has been explored in some cases of Crohn’s disease, another form of inflammatory bowel disease. However, its effectiveness in Crohn’s disease is generally limited compared to its use in ulcerative colitis.
• Diverticulitis: Some studies have investigated the use of balsalazide in diverticulitis, a condition characterized by inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the walls of the intestines. However, its efficacy for this condition is not well-established.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Colazal:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to balsalazide or any other medications.
• Kidney or Liver Problems: If you have kidney or liver disease, discuss with your doctor whether Colazal is safe for you to use and if any dosage adjustments are necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s important to discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Colazal during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully considered based on potential risks and benefits.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Colazal, affecting how it works or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to assess your response to Colazal and to monitor for any side effects or complications.
• Sulfasalazine Allergy: If you have a known allergy to sulfasalazine, which is chemically related to balsalazide, inform your doctor. While cross-reactivity between sulfasalazine and balsalazide is low, caution is usually advised.
• Colon Cancer: Patients with ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Regular colonoscopies and monitoring are typically recommended, but the use of Colazal does not eliminate this risk.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Colazal for detailed information on its use, potential side effects, and precautions. If you have any concerns or questions about taking Colazal, consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your specific situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Colazal. However, if you have ulcerative colitis, managing your diet according to your symptoms is important. This may include avoiding trigger foods that worsen your symptoms (such as spicy foods or dairy products if you’re lactose intolerant), staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

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

What side effects can this medication cause?

Colazal (balsalazide) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some of the common side effects include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
• Abdominal Pain: Some people may experience abdominal discomfort or cramping.
• Diarrhea: This can be a common side effect, especially at the start of treatment.
• Nausea: Feeling nauseous or experiencing an upset stomach.
• Joint Pain: Some individuals may notice joint pain or stiffness.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
• Flatulence (Gas): Increased gas production or bloating.
• Cold Symptoms: Mild cold-like symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose.
• Back Pain: Occasional reports of back pain.
• Constipation: Less commonly, constipation can occur.

Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), worsening of colitis symptoms, or liver problems (yellowing of the eyes/skin, dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain). If you experience any serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s important to report any persistent or bothersome side effects to your healthcare provider. They can help monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan if needed.

As with any medication, individual responses can vary, so it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and discuss any concerns you have about potential side effects before starting Colazal.

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

Storage and Disposal of Colazal:

• Storage:
  • Store Colazal capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
  • Do not store in the bathroom.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused Colazal capsules properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • If unsure about disposal, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency:
  • If you experience severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), seek immediate medical attention.
  • For any other emergency, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Overdose:
  • Symptoms of overdose may include severe vomiting, dizziness, confusion, or extreme tiredness.
  • If you suspect an overdose, contact your poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the US) or seek emergency medical attention immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to Colazal and assess any side effects.
• Routine Tests: Your doctor may order periodic blood tests to monitor your liver function and overall health while taking Colazal.
• Symptom Management: Continue taking Colazal as prescribed, even if you start feeling better, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Lifestyle Considerations: If you have ulcerative colitis, managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying hydrated can help complement the effects of Colazal.
• Interactions: Inform all healthcare providers about all medications (including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements) you are taking, as some may interact with Colazal.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of allergic reactions and seek immediate medical help if they occur.
• Patient Education: Educate yourself about ulcerative colitis, its symptoms, and how Colazal works to manage the condition.

Always store medications safely and follow disposal guidelines to protect others from potential harm. If you have any specific concerns or questions about Colazal, its storage, use, or potential side effects, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.