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Balsalazide Oral Capsule (BALSALAZIDE - ORAL)

For inflammatory bowel disease.

Brand Name(s): Colazal

Generic Name: Balsalazide

Instructions

If unable to swallow the capsule, open the capsule and sprinkle onto applesauce. Eat the applesauce right away.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this 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.

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.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine contains sodium. If you are on a low sodium diet, consider this as part of your total sodium diet.

If you have been told to follow a low sodium diet, speak to your doctor before using this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than three times during 24 hours.

Cautions

IMPORTANT: Children and teenagers should not use medications containing aspirin for 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.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

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.

  • abdominal cramps
  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • fever
  • headaches
  • pain in the joints
  • nausea and vomiting
  • sore throat

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • rapid heartbeat
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • dark urine
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • yellowing of eyes or skin

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.