Canasa (Mesalamine)

Mesalamine suppository

What is this medicine?

MESALAMINE is used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• pyloric stenosis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to mesalamine, salicylates, other medicines, sulfites, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Mesalamine rectal comes with patient instructions for using either the rectal suppository or the rectal enema. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Do not take mesalamine rectal by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum. Try to empty your bowel and bladder just before using mesalamine rectal. It may be best to use this medicine at bedtime. Wash your hands before and after inserting the rectal suppository. Remove the wrapper before inserting the suppository. Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt in your hands. Lie on your back with your knees up toward your chest. Gently insert the suppository into your rectum about 1 inch. For best results, stay lying down for a few minutes. The suppository will melt quickly and you should feel little or no discomfort while holding it in. Avoid using the bathroom for at least 1 hour after using the suppository. Shake the rectal enema liquid well just before each use. For best results from the enema, stay lying down for at least 30 minutes to allow the liquid to distribute throughout your intestines. Try to hold in the enema all night if possible. Avoid using the bathroom during this time. The rectal enema liquid may darken in color after it has been removed from the foil pouch. This should not affect the medicine. However, throw away any enema liquid that has turned dark brown. Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• digoxin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better after several days. There is usually an improvement in 3 to 21 days. You may need about 6 weeks of treatment to get good results. Do not change the brand of this medicine that you are taking without talking to your doctor or health care professional. All brands do not have the same dose. You may notice the empty shell from this medicine in your stool. If this happens frequently, you should contact your doctor or health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• bloody diarrhea
• chest pain
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• fever
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• unusually weak or tired
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• headache
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach gas
• stomach pain or cramps

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.