Mesacol OD Tablet

Mesacol OD tablets contain mesalazine (also known as mesalamine or 5-aminosalicylic Acid) as their active ingredient. They are used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (a condition that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestines) and also help prevent the recurrence of its symptoms. It works by inhibiting certain substances in the body that may lead to inflammation.

Mesacol OD should only be taken after consulting a doctor, in doses and for the duration prescribed. It is not recommended for use in children under 6 years old.

Dosage

Overdose

Seek urgent medical help if you feel that you have taken too much of Mesacol OD tablet.

Missed a Dose

In case you’ve missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Avoid taking a double dose to compensate for the missed dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Mesalazine in this medicine works by preventing or blocking the body from producing certain substances that may cause inflammation.

Directions for Use

• Mesacol OD tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow it whole with a glass of water, preferably before your meals.
• Do not cut, break or chew the medicine. It would be best if you took it at a fixed time for optimal results and should not consume it more than that prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Mesacol OD tablet during pregnancy?

You should consult your doctor before using Mesacol OD as there is limited information about its safety during pregnancy. Your doctor will only prescribe you this medicine if considered essential after assessing the benefits over risks.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Mesacol OD tablet while breastfeeding?

Mesacol OD passes into breast milk in a small amount, hence you should consult your doctor. When prescribed, watch out for symptoms like diarrhoea, if your child develops it immediately discontinue breastfeeding and contact your doctor.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Mesacol OD tablet?

It is not expected that Mesacol OD will affect your ability to drive, but sometimes this medicine may make you a little dizzy, hence you should be cautious while driving or operating machines.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Mesacol OD tablet?

Although there is no known interaction between alcohol and Mesacol OD, it is essential to consult your physician if you have a habit of regular drinking.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have any liver or kidney related problems.
• You have any lung diseases like asthma.
• You have any problems with your heart (like any allergic reactions).
• You have experienced an allergic reaction while taking sulfasalazine.
• You may develop kidney stones (symptoms like stomach pain, blood in urine) while on treatment with this medicine. Hence you should drink plenty of water.
• Before and during treatment with Mesacol OD tablet, your doctor may want to monitor the liver, kidneys, blood and lungs periodically.
• Mesacol OD tablet is not recommended for use in children less than 6 years old.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to mesalazine or any other ingredients of Mesacol OD tablet.
• If you have any problems with your liver or kidney.
• If you are allergic to salicylates (Diclofenac, aspirin, Ibuprofen, etc).
• If your child is below the age of 6 years.

Side effects

• Skin rash, itching
• Indigestion
• Fever
• Chest pain
• Numbness, tingling or pricking sensation

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• You should always tell the doctor if you are taking any other medicines, herbal preparation and supplements to avoid any interaction with Mesacol OD tablet.
• You need to be cautious while simultaneously taking this medicine along with medicines like azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine (used in rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease), thioguanine (used in cancer treatment).
• This medicine when taken along with blood thinners like warfarin (used to prevent blood clot formation) may decrease the effect of warfarin.

Interactions with food items

Mesacol OD Tablet PR may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

Storage and disposal

• Store Mesacol OD tablet in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• Keep it away from children and pets. Do not use expired or damaged medicines.
• Discard any unused medicine properly, do not flush in the toilet or throw it into the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long to take Mesacol OD tablet?

The dose and duration of Mesacol od will depend on the response to treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions and do not stop taking this medicine on your own.

My brother has similar symptoms can I recommend Mesacol od to her?

No, you should not recommend Mesacol od to anyone. As different underlying conditions produce similar symptoms that the doctor can decide on after careful clinical examinations. This medicine also has many contraindications and side effects that ignored can lead to severe conditions. So, do not recommend self-administration. Ask your friend to use it only after the doctor’s advice.

Can I stop taking Mesacol OD tablet if I feel better?

No, you should not stop taking this medicine until advised by the doctor, even if you are feeling good. Please reach out to your doctor if you have any issues while taking this medicine.

What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Mesacol OD tablet?

• Inform the doctor about your detailed medical & surgical history.
• Inform your doctor if you have heart, liver or kidney disease.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby.
• This medicine may interact with other medicines, hence, inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines including supplements or herbal products. Also, inform your doctor if you are stopping any medicine.

What are the side effects of Mesacol OD?

Skin rash, itching, indigestion, fever and chest pain are a few side effects of Mesacol Od. However, these symptoms are usually mild and resolve on your own.