Pentasa

Pentasa is a prescription medicine that is licensed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. It can significantly improve symptoms and help prevent flare-ups from returning. The drug is available in the form of controlled-release capsules, which are specially designed to dissolve slowly over time to allow the medication to be released throughout the intestinal tract. Side effects of Pentasa may include diarrhea and nausea.

 

What Is Pentasa?

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

Who Makes Pentasa?

Pentasa is manufactured by Shire USA, Inc.
 

How Does Pentasa Work?

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.
 
Pentasa capsules are controlled-release, meaning they dissolve slowly over time. This allows the medication to be released throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
 

Effects of Pentasa

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.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;