Pentasa or Mesalamine? What is it and what are the side affects ?

24 Jul 2010

They are the same,

Pentasa (mesalamine) is a prescription medication used to treat ulcerative colitis.

Common Side Effects of Pentasa

Diarrhea
Nausea

Serious Side Effects
Some side effects with Pentasa are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your Doctor.

Worsening of ulcerative colitis symptoms
Depression
Signs of liver problems, such as:

Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
Dark urine
Upper-right abdominal pain (stomach pain)

Decreased urination
Signs of an allergic reaction, including:

Unexplained rash
Hives
Itching
Unexplained swelling
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Rare Pentasa Side Effects
.

Loss of appetite
Thrush
Acne
Hair loss
Dry skin
Sensitivity to the sun
Increased sweating
Insomnia
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Conjunctivitis ("pink eye").

I hope this helps.-