Colazal

Colazal is commonly prescribed to treat ulcerative colitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the colon. The drug is thought to work by decreasing the production of certain chemicals that lead to inflammation. Colazal comes in capsule form, and is typically taken three times a day. Common side effects of this medicine can include abdominal pain (or stomach pain), diarrhea, and joint pain.

Colazal Drug Information

What Is Colazal?

Colazal^® (balsalazide disodium) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis.

(Click Colazal Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Colazal?

It is manufactured by Salix Pharmaceuticals.

How Does It Work?

Colazal belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that the drug 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 the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.

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.

Effects of Colazal

In previous clinical studies, after eight weeks of taking Colazal, up to 55 percent of people had less blood in the stool, compared to just 35 percent of those not taking it. The drug also helped people have fewer trips to the toilet.

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