Rowasa is a medication used for treating ulcerative colitis affecting the rectum and last part of the colon. This eMedTV page explains how the drug works to improve symptoms of ulcerative proctitis, offers general dosing information, and more.
Rowasa side effects may include the flu, a fever, and abdominal pain (or stomach pain). This page on the eMedTV site lists other common side effects of Rowasa, describes less common problems, and explains which side effects require medical attention.
There are many possible side effects of Rowasa, and hair loss is a rare but possible problem. This eMedTV segment discusses how common hair loss is with Rowasa and explains what your doctor may recommend if you experience this side effect.
Rowasa is used for treating ulcerative colitis that affects just the rectum and the last part of the colon. This eMedTV article explains how Rowasa works, describes the effects of the drug, and covers possible "off-label" Rowasa uses.
The suggested Rowasa dosage for treating ulcerative colitis or ulcerative proctitis is one enema once daily. This eMedTV resource offers more information on Rowasa dosing, including a list of tips on when and how to use the Rowasa enema.
If you take digoxin or warfarin along with Rowasa, drug interactions may potentially occur. This eMedTV page explains how Rowasa interactions can make digoxin or warfarin less effective.
You should not take Rowasa if you are allergic to sulfites or any components used to make Rowasa. This eMedTV Web page contains other Rowasa warnings and precautions, including possible side effects that may occur during treatment with the medicine.
The full risks of using Rowasa during pregnancy are not known, but it's most likely safe for pregnant women. This eMedTV article offers more information on Rowasa and pregnancy, including a discussion of the studies conducted on pregnant animals.
It is not known for sure if Rowasa passes through breast milk. This eMedTV article discusses the research findings on Rowasa and breastfeeding, and explains why the drug (which is in the form of an enema) isn't absorbed into the blood in high levels.
Rowasa is currently available in generic form. As this article from the eMedTV Web site explains, generic Rowasa is sold under the name Mesalamine rectal suspension and is manufactured by several drug companies.
