Sulfasalazine

Sulfasalazine is a medication that is prescribed for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Not only can the medicine reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, it can also prevent them from returning. Sulfasalazine comes in tablet form and is typically taken three to six times a day. Side effects of the drug may include headache, reversible low sperm count in men, and loss of appetite.

 

What Is Sulfasalazine?

Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis. It is also available in a delayed-release tablet form (see Azulfidine EN-tabs), which is approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
 
(Click What Is Sulfasalazine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Sulfasalazine?

Sulfasalazine is manufactured by Pfizer, Inc.
 

How Does Sulfasalazine Work?

Sulfasalazine belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that the medicine works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. Sulfasalazine decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.
 

When and How to Take Sulfasalazine

General considerations for when and how to take sulfasalazine include the following:
 
  • The medication comes in tablet form. It is generally taken by mouth, usually three to six times per day.
     
  • Sulfasalazine can be taken with or without food. If the drug bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
     
  • The medication 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. Sulfasalazine will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosage Information for Sulfasalazine

The dose of sulfasalazine that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • The severity of your ulcerative colitis
  • Your age and weight
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may currently be taking.
     
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Sulfasalazine Dosing for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Sulfasalazine

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with sulfasalazine. However, not everyone who takes the medicine 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 of sulfasalazine include but are not limited to:
 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Reversible low sperm count in men.
     
(Click Sulfasalazine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Sulfasalazine Drug Interactions

Sulfasalazine can potentially interact with a few medicines (see Drug Interactions With Sulfasalazine).
 

Sulfasalazine: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking sulfasalazine if you have:
 
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • An intestinal blockage
  • Porphyria (problems with certain enzymes in the body)
  • Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Liver disease, including liver failure or cirrhosis
  • Anemia or any other low blood cell count
  • Asthma
  • Any allergies, including allergies to sulfa drugs, 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.
 
(Click Precautions and Warnings With Sulfasalazine to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose of Sulfasalazine?

People who take too much sulfasalazine may have overdose symptoms that could include:
 
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
  • Drowsiness
  • Seizures.
     
If you happen to overdose on sulfasalazine, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Azulfidine Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Sulfasalazine Be Stored?

Sulfasalazine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should also be stored in an airtight container.
 
Keep sulfasalazine and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Sulfasalazine?

If you do not take your sulfasalazine 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.
 

Strengths of Sulfasalazine

Sulfasalazine tablets are available in one strength -- Sulfasalazine 500 mg tablets.
 

Generic Sulfasalazine

Currently, both brand-name and generic sulfasalazine tablets are available (see Generic Azulfidine).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;