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Aminosalicylates

- Summary
- About aminosalicylates
- Types and differences
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Lifestyle considerations
- Symptoms of overdose
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Vikram Tarugu, M.D., AGA, ACG

Summary

Aminosalicylates are medications that use the ingredient 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) to treat inflammation resulting from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These drugs are effective in treating mild to moderate inflammation, but are less effective in treating more severe cases.

Sulfasalazine was the first widely used aminosalicylate. However, the drug sometimes causes numerous side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache. Newer aminosalicylates include balsalazide, mesalamine and olsalazine. They are less likely to cause side effects.

Aminosalicylates are available in various formulations including oral preparations, enemas, suppositories (solid medications that are inserted into a body cavity other than the mouth before melting and passing into the bloodstream).

Patients should not take aminosalicylates if they are allergic or otherwise sensitive to salicylates (e.g., aspirin). Other drugs may also interact poorly with aminosalicylates. In addition, patients may not be good candidates for taking aminosalicylates if they have been diagnosed with kidney or liver disease.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a physician before using aminosalicylates. These drugs also are not recommended for use in children, particularly those under age two.

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Review Date: 02-07-2007
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