Rowasa
Health Benefits
The inner lining of the large intestine and the rectum become inflamed and ulcerated as a result of ulcerative colitis. A chronic inflammatory disorder of the digestive system, Crohn's disease. Both illnesses can result in fatigue, diarrhoea, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
By reducing intestinal inflammation, rowasa can aid in easing the symptoms of these conditions. In addition, Rowasa may aid in preventing ulcerative colitis from returning after remission.
Side Effects
Rowasa's most typical side effects include:
headaches
nausea
abdominal pain
gas
diarrhea
dizziness
runny or congested nose
If these side effects are minor, they might disappear in a few days or weeks. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if they are more severe or persistent.
Rowasa has also been associated with serious side effects. These consist of:
swelling of the mouth, face, lips, throat, or tongue; allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest);
soiled stools;
unpleasant stomach pain
tarry, black stools;
poop that resembles coffee grounds;
loss of weight;
breathing difficulties; and
vision alterations
Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these side effects.
Rowasa can result in additional, less frequent side effects.
Dosage
For up to 8 weeks, 4 grams (64 mL) of Rowasa enemas should be inserted into the rectum once daily before bed. Rowasa suppositories should be administered to adults once daily at bedtime for up to 8 weeks at a dose of 2 grams (32 mL).
Children under the age of 18 should use rowasa enemas and suppositories with caution. This age group has not been proven to be safe or effective.
Rowasa enemas and suppositories should not be administered to children under the age of two.
Mechanism of Action
Rowasa's mode of action is not entirely understood.Rowasa is thought to function by preventing immune cells in the intestine from producing and releasing inflammatory mediators.In addition, Rowasa may have direct anti-inflammatory effects on the intestinal lining.
Interactions
Rowasa and other drugs may interact. Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, mineral, herbal, and other medications you are taking. Never begin a new medication without first consulting your physician.
Tylenol (acetaminophen);
(Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune) cyclosporine
insulin or diabetes medications taken orally;
(Rheumatrex, Trexall) methotrexate; or
(Prednisone) steroids
This is not an exhaustive list. Rowasa may interact with other medications, including prescription and OTC drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. This medication guide does not include all interactions that might occur.
Pharmacokinetics
Rowasa is quickly absorbed from the rectum following enema or suppository administration. Within one to three hours of administration, Rowasa reaches its peak blood concentration. The primary way that rowasa leaves the body is through feces. Urinary excretion of a dose administered is less than 2%.
Rowasa has a half-life of about 8 hours.
Particular Populations
With Rowasa, no unique population pharmacokinetic studies have been carried out.