Colazal

The drug colazal is used to treat IBD, or inflammatory bowel disease. It is a member of the aminosalicylates drug class. Colazal works by reducing intestinal inflammation.

Health Benefits

Colazal has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of IBD-related ulcerative colitis. Colazal was found to be more effective than a placebo at inducing and maintaining remission in patients with ulcerative colitis, according to a review of studies.

In a different study, it was discovered that Colazal is just as effective at causing remission in patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis as the medication sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). Colazal, however, had a higher rate of relapse than sulfasalazine.

The treatment of another form of IBD, Crohn's disease, with colazal may also be successful. In one study, Colazal was discovered to be more effective than a placebo at bringing Crohn's disease patients into remission.

Side Effects

Colazal's most typical side effects include:

uneasy stomach

Diarrhea

Headache

Dizziness

Among the less frequent side effects are:

Rash

Hives

Itching

swelling of the tongue, throat, lips, or face

Blistering or peeling skin, bloody stools, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, severe diarrhea, and others are rare side effects. difficulty breathing, throat discomfort, unusual fatigue or weakness, and vision changes. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these side effects.

The drug colazal is used to treat IBD, or inflammatory bowel disease. It is a member of the aminosalicylates drug class. Colazal works by reducing intestinal inflammation.

Dosages

Adults should take 3 pills (750 mg) of Colazal three times daily. The maximum daily dose advised is 4.5 grams.

2.25 to 4.5 grams per day, divided into three doses, is the recommended dosage for kids aged 6 to 17 years.

To lessen stomach upset, Colazal should be taken with food or milk.

Interactions

There may be interactions between colazal and other drugs, herbs, or vitamins you are taking. These interactions could make the medication less effective or raise the risk of side effects. Your doctor needs to carefully monitor all of your medications in order to prevent these interactions. Tell your doctor about all the drugs, supplements, and herbs you are taking.

The following are some examples of drugs that could interact with Colazal:

5-aminosalicylates

Corticosteroids

Immunosuppressants

Tacrolimus

Azathioprine

Cyclosporine

Before taking Colazal, discuss with your doctor whether you are currently taking any of these drugs. Your dosage may need to be changed, and your doctor may need to keep a closer eye out for any side effects.

The following herbs and dietary supplements may interact with Colazal:

B9 vitamin folate

D3 vitamin

The risk of Colazal side effects may increase if you take folate or vitamin D3. Before taking Colazal if you are taking these supplements, consult your doctor. Your dosage may need to be changed, and your doctor may need to keep a closer eye out for any side effects.

Mechanism of Action

Colazal works by reducing intestinal inflammation. By preventing the production of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, it is believed to work. Colazal might also function by preventing immune cells like T-cells and macrophages from activating.

Pharmacokinetics

Colazal is taken up by the intestine and broken down by the liver. The metabolites are subsequently eliminated through urine. Colazal has a half-life of 8 to 12 hours.

Alternatives to Colazal

Colazal is not the only option available for treating IBD. They also include immunosuppressants like azathioprine (Imuran) and 6-mercaptopurine (Purinethol), as well as other aminosalicylates like sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) and mesalamine (Asacol, Lialda, Pentasa, Rowasa). Prednisone and other corticosteroids are also used to treat IBD.

Speak with your doctor about the alternatives if you're looking for a Colazal substitute.

Storage

Colazal needs to be kept at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions about storage.