Canasa Uses

Canasa uses are primarily focused on the treatment of ulcerative proctitis, a form of ulcerative colitis that specifically affects the rectum. The medication has not been approved for use in children. Healthcare providers may occasionally prescribe Canasa for treating conditions other than ulcerative proctitis. These off-label Canasa uses may include the treatment of Crohn's disease.

 

Canasa Uses: An Overview

Canasa® (mesalamine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ulcerative proctitis (a form of ulcerative colitis that affects just the rectum). It is part of a group of medications known as aminosalicylates.
 
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to inflammation and sores in the lining of the large intestine and rectum. It commonly causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other symptoms, like rectal bleeding or an extreme urgency to have a bowel movement. Ulcerative proctitis treatment options include the following:
 
Because Canasa is used as a suppository, it is effective for ulcerative colitis that affects just the rectum (ulcerative proctitis)
 

How Does Canasa Work?

Canasa belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that the medicine works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. Canasa decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.
 
(Canasa Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;