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Printable Version Mesalamine Enema

Active Ingredients: Mesalamine
Other Names: Rowasa Enema
Drug Class: Aminosalicylates
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Mesalamine Enema?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Mesalamine Enema? (Back to top)
MESALAMINE is used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • kidney disease
  • pyloric stenosis
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to mesalamine, salicylates, other medicines, sulfites, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Shake well before using. Lie on your left side, extend the left leg and pull the right leg up towards your chest or pull both knees toward the chest. Take off the applicator tip cover and place the applicator tip gently into the rectum. Pointing the tip toward your stomach, squeeze the bottle steadily. Stay in position for at least 30 minutes to allow the medication to spread inside. For best results, use this medicine before bedtime and after you have had a bowel movement. Try keeping the suspension in the rectum for 8 hours. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • black, tarry stools
  • bloody diarrhea
  • breathing problems
  • chest pain
  • fever
  • nausea, vomiting
  • pain or trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
  • unusually weak or tired
  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • headache
  • rectal discomfort
  • stomach gas
  • stomach pain or cramps

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. There is usually an improvement in 3 to 21 days. You may need about 6 weeks of treatment to get good results.

This medicine may stain clothing and other fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, plastics, and enamel.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Once the foil-wrapped unit of seven bottles is opened, all enemas should be used within a short period of time. The suspension may darken after opening foil pouch. Slight darkening is okay; however, throw away enemas with dark brown contents. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:April 29, 2008

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Mesalamine Enema

  Learn how Mesalamine Enema is/are used to treat:
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease

      Learn more about using Rectal Suppositories

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Mesalamine Enema, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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