Instructions
This medicine is for use in the rectum or around the anus. DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.
Try to have a bowel movement just before using this medicine.
Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.
Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. However, do not get up right away to wash your hands if you are supposed to lie down for a period of time to give the medicine time to work.
Lie on your left side, with your right knee bent toward your chest. Or, you may kneel on both knees, with your arms folded on the floor with your head resting on your arms.
Unwrap the suppository and moisten it with a few drops of cool water. Insert the pointed end into the anus, and push it all the way in with your finger.
If the suppository becomes soft, you can make it firmer by refrigerating it. You can run it under cold water if the suppository is wrapped.
If your dose is one-half (1/2) suppository, carefully cut it lengthwise using a clean, sharp knife.
If you have hemorrhoids, you may coat the tip of the suppository with a water-soluble lubricant (for example K-Y Jelly) before inserting. Do NOT use Vaseline.
Next, lie on your left side for at least 30 minutes, and keep the medicine in your rectum for at least 1 hour or, preferably, overnight.
Keep this medicine at room temperature.
Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Brand Name(s): Canasa
Generic Name: Mesalamine
Cautions
IMPORTANT: Children and teenagers should not use this medicine if they have cold and flu symptoms or chickenpox.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- diarrhea
- excess gas
- headaches
- nausea
- rectal burning or irritation
- stomach upset or abdominal pain
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- abdominal cramps
- bleeding from rectum
- chest pain
- severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
- fever
- swelling in the neck or throat
- signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
- signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
- red, burning, or itchy skin
- shortness of breath
- blood in stool
- urinating less often
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
The display and use of this drug information is subject to Terms of Use.
More information about MESALAMINE (5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID) SUPPOSITORY - RECTAL
Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
