Pentasa Uses

Pentasa uses are mainly focused on the treatment of ulcerative colitis. By inhibiting the production of chemicals that lead to the inflammation often caused by ulcerative colitis, the medication can improve the symptoms of the condition. Pentasa has not been approved for use in children. "Off-label" Pentasa uses include the treatment of Crohn's disease, another condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract.

 

Pentasa Uses: An Overview

Pentasa® (mesalamine) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat ulcerative colitis. It is part of a group of medications known as aminosalicylates.
 
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to inflammation and sores in the lining of the large intestine and rectum. It commonly causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other symptoms, like rectal bleeding or extreme urgency to have a bowel movement. At this time, the causes of ulcerative colitis are not fully understood. Although ulcerative colitis complications can be quite severe, there is only one ulcerative colitis cure -- surgery. Other than surgery (see Ulcerative Colitis Surgery), ulcerative colitis treatment options include the following:
 
Pentasa is approved to treat mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis, helping to reduce the symptoms of the condition.
 
(Pentasa Uses Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;