Lialda

Lialda is a medication that is licensed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis in adults. It helps to improve symptoms by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. The medication, which is available by prescription, comes in a delayed-release tablet that is generally taken once a day. Potential side effects of Lialda include gas and headache.

What Is Lialda?

Lialda® (mesalamine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis.
 
(Click Lialda Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes It?

Lialda is manufactured by Shire USA, Inc.
 

How Does Lialda Work?

Lialda belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that the medication works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. Lialda decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.
 
The tablets have a special delayed-release coating. This coating prevents the tablets from dissolving until they reach the colon.
 

Effects of Lialda

Studies have looked at using Lialda to treat active cases of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. In one study, up to 41.2 percent of people taking the drug experienced ulcerative colitis remission within eight weeks, compared to just 22.1 percent of those not taking it. In this study, ulcerative colitis remission was defined as:
 
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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