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What Is Pentasa?

Pentasa is a prescription medication used to treat patients with ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the digestive tract becomes inflamed. The condition can cause severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pentasa is not a cure for ulcerative colitis but rather treats the common symptoms. Pentasa is a brand-name drug; the generic name is mesalamine.

  1. How it Works

    • Pentasa is classified as an aminosalicylate anti-inflammatory medication. The exact mechanism by which it works is not known, but taking it stops the body from producing chemicals that can cause pain and inflammation.

    How to Take it

    • Pentasa is often prescribed four times a day, but the frequency can vary by patient. It can be taken with or without food. Because it is a controlled-release medication, the pills need to be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects of Pentasa include headaches, nausea, vomiting, mild abdominal pain, diarrhea and heartburn. None of these are cause for concern. However, in rare cases, people may experience side effects that may indicate a potentially serious complication. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: bloody diarrhea, blood in the urine, bloody vomit, jaundice, sudden shortness of breath, a change in urine output, dark urine, severe or sudden stomach cramps or pain, severe or persistent headaches and chills, a fever or a chronic sore throat.

    Warnings

    • Pentasa may cause stomach bleeding in rare cases. Daily use of alcohol can increase the risk. The medication also may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions, including people with pancreas, liver or kidney problems, asthma and pericarditis.

    Drug Interactions

    • Some medications are known to interact with Pentasa. Taking Pentasa with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors can decrease its effectiveness. Also, medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, anticoagulants, beta blockers, sulfinpyrazone and probenecid may not be as effective when taken with Pentasa. When taken with salicylates such as aspirin, patients are more likely to experience bleeding.

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