General Info:

Mesalamine is an anti-inflammatory drug used to treat inflammation of the digestive tract ulcerative colitis and mild to moderate Crohn's disease.

The exact mechanism of mesalamine is not known but is believed to be by reducing inflammation in the colon.

Mesalamine delayed-release tablets and controlled-release capsules may be used to treat ulcerative colitis that affects any part of the colon. Mesalamine suppositories and enemas should only be used to treat inflammation of the lower part of the colon. Mesalamine is in a class of medications called anti-inflammatory agents. It works by stopping the body from producing a certain substance that may cause pain or inflammation.

You should begin to feel better during the first few days or weeks of your treatment with mesalamine. Continue to take or use mesalamine until you finish your prescription, even if you feel better at the beginning of your treatment. Do not stop taking or using mesalamine without talking to your doctor.

Mesalamine is sold under a variety of brand names Apriso, Asacol, Lialda, Pentasa, Rowasa, FIV-ASA, Salofalk, Mesasal Enteric Coated, Canasa, Canasa Pac.