Colazal belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that Colazal works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the
colon. The medication decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to inflammation.
The Colazal molecule itself is inactive. However, when it reaches the colon, bacteria enzymes split the Colazal molecule, releasing the active forms of the medication.
Colazal is approved to treat
ulcerative colitis in children five years and older. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of using the drug in children.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Colazal for something other than ulcerative colitis. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, using Colazal to treat
Crohn's disease is among these potential off-label Colazal uses.
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