Pentasa is manufactured by Shire USA, Inc.
Pentasa 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. Pentasa decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.
The capsules are controlled-release, meaning they dissolve slowly over time. This allows the medication to be released throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
In clinical studies, people taking Pentasa experienced fewer
symptoms of ulcerative colitis (including fever, trips to the toilet, bleeding, and pain) when compared to those not taking the medication.
General considerations for when and how to take Pentasa include the following:
- The medication comes in capsule form. It is usually taken by mouth four times daily.
- You can take Pentasa with or without food. If the medicine bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- The capsules are controlled-release and should not be opened, chewed, or crushed.
- Pentasa should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Pentasa will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Pentasa your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Pentasa. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
(Click Pentasa Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Pentasa if you have:
- Liver disease, including liver failure or cirrhosis
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Pentasa may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Vertigo (a spinning sensation)
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Sweating
- Hyperventilation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea.
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Pentasa Be Stored?
Pentasa should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The capsules should be stored in an airtight container.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Pentasa as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Pentasa capsules are available in two strengths:
- Pentasa 250 mg controlled-release
- Pentasa 500 mg controlled-release.
There is currently no generic Pentasa licensed for sale. Even though the patents for the drug have expired, no companies have chosen to make a generic version.
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