Mesalamine (Pentasa) ER capsules for ulcerative colitis

Summary

This video provides an informative overview of mesalamine, a drug used to treat ulcerative colitis. It explains its chemical structure as a 5-amino salicylic acid, its anti-inflammatory effects similar to aspirin, and how it works to reduce inflammation in the colon. Mesalamine inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, leukocyte migration, and the NFkB pathway to decrease inflammation. The video also highlights precautions, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs like azathioprine. It concludes by explaining the proper dosage and treatment regimen for ulcerative colitis and encourages viewers to share and subscribe for more information.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mesalamine is a 5-Amino salicylic acid, also known as mesalazine, used as an anti-inflammatory drug.
• 😀 The drug works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, reducing leukocyte migration, and blocking inflammatory pathways like NFkB.
• 😀 Mesalamine is primarily used to treat ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation in the colon, especially the rectal area.
• 😀 It is available as a delayed-release capsule that should not be broken, crushed, or chewed, but can be opened for those who cannot swallow capsules.
• 😀 Mesalamine's chemical structure is derived from salicylic acid with an amine group attached at the meta position, making it similar to aspirin in its anti-inflammatory effects.
• 😀 The drug can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and headaches.
• 😀 Caution is required when prescribing mesalamine to patients with renal issues, as it may cause nephropathy or renal failure.
• 😀 There is a risk of drug interactions, particularly with nephrotoxic drugs like NSAIDs, aminoglycosides, and antifungal agents.
• 😀 Mesalamine should be used carefully in patients with hepatic conditions, as it can cause hepatic failure.
• 😀 Dosage for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis is typically two 400 mg capsules three times daily, while for maintenance, 1600 mg per day is recommended.

Q & A

What is Mesalamine and how is it structurally classified?

Mesalamine, also known as 5-Amino Salicylic Acid or Mesalazine, is a drug that contains an amine group attached at the meta position of a salicylic acid molecule. It is classified as a 5-amino salicylic acid.

What are the indications for using Mesalamine?

Mesalamine is primarily used to treat ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by inflammation in the colon, particularly the rectal region. It helps manage symptoms such as abdominal pain, blood in stools, and unexpected weight loss.

How does Mesalamine work to reduce inflammation in the colon?

Mesalamine works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins and blocking the migration of leukocytes, both of which are key contributors to inflammation. It also inhibits the NFkB pathway, further reducing the inflammatory response.

What is the mechanism of action of Mesalamine in relation to COX enzymes?

Mesalamine, like aspirin, blocks the activity of the COX-1 enzyme, which is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. By doing so, it helps to reduce inflammation in the colon.

What are the precautions to consider when administering Mesalamine?

Precautions include monitoring renal function as Mesalamine can cause nephropathy, avoiding co-administration with nephrotoxic drugs like NSAIDs and certain antibiotics, and being cautious in patients with a history of hepatic damage or blood disorders.

Can Mesalamine cause any serious side effects?

Yes, Mesalamine can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal pain, belching, constipation, and bloody diarrhea. It may also lead to intolerance syndrome, which mimics symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including fever, headache, and skin rashes.

How is Mesalamine typically dosed for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis?

For mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, Mesalamine is typically administered as two 400 mg capsules, three times daily (a total of 800 mg per dose), with treatment continuing for up to six weeks.

What dosage of Mesalamine is recommended for maintaining remission of ulcerative colitis?

For maintenance of remission, the recommended dosage is 1600 mg per day, given in divided doses.

What are some potential drug interactions with Mesalamine?

Mesalamine may interact with immunosuppressants like azathioprine, increasing the risk of blood disorders. It can also interact with drugs that affect renal function, such as NSAIDs, aminoglycosides, and amphotericin B.

How should Mesalamine be taken to ensure it works effectively?

Mesalamine should be taken as a delayed-release capsule, which should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. If the patient cannot swallow the capsule, it can be opened, and each tablet should be swallowed whole to maintain the delayed-release effect.