Pentasa 500 mg Tablet PR (Mesalazine 500 mg)

What is Pentasa 500 mg?

Pentasa 500 mg Tablet PR, produced by Ferring Pharmaceuticals, is a prescription medication containing 500 mg of mesalazine (also known as mesalamine), an aminosalicylate designed to manage inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease in adults and children over 6 years. Its prolonged-release (PR) formulation ensures steady delivery of mesalazine throughout the digestive tract, targeting inflammation in the colon and small intestine. By reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins, Pentasa helps control symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding, promoting remission and preventing flare-ups.

Taken orally with food, typically 2–8 tablets daily depending on the condition, it’s a cornerstone therapy for mild to moderate IBD. Pentasa is not a cure but significantly improves quality of life when used alongside dietary changes. Medical supervision is essential due to potential side effects, including rare risks of kidney or liver issues, and it’s not recommended for those with severe kidney disease or salicylate allergies. Always consult your doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning surgery.

What Can Pentasa 500 mg Do for You?

• Reduces Inflammation: Controls gut inflammation, easing pain and discomfort.
• Promotes Remission: Helps achieve and maintain symptom-free periods in ulcerative colitis.
• Manages Crohn’s Symptoms: Alleviates diarrhea and bleeding in mild to moderate cases.
• Improves Quality of Life: Supports normal daily activities by reducing flare-ups.
• Targeted Delivery: PR formulation ensures effective action throughout the gut.
• Pediatric-Friendly: Suitable for children over 6 with adjusted dosing.
• Long-Term Support: Proven effective for chronic IBD management.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

• Common: Headache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence (≥1% of patients).
• Less Common: Rash, itching, fatigue, joint pain, fever.
• Rare: Pancreatitis, hepatitis, kidney dysfunction, blood disorders (e.g., low white blood cells).
• Serious: Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing issues), kidney failure, myocarditis; seek immediate medical help.
• Note: Side effects are often mild; contact your doctor if they persist or worsen.

How Is Pentasa 500 mg Used?

• Ulcerative Colitis: Induces and maintains remission in mild to moderate cases.
• Crohn’s Disease: Manages active disease and prevents relapses in mild cases.
• Chronic IBD Therapy: Used long-term to control symptoms and inflammation.
• Pediatric IBD: Treats ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s in children over 6.