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Mesalazine Rectal Foam

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Aminosalicylates Salofalk® Rectal Foam Adult

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - What is it for

Mesalazine is an anti-inflammatory agent. Mesalazine Rectal Foam is used for the treatment of inflammation of the large intestine (colon) and rectum (back passage) known as ulcerative colitis.

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Mesalazine Rectal Foam cause?

A common side effect that you might experience is abdominal discomfort. If the pain is intolerable or severe, please inform your doctor.

Less common side effects include anal discomfort, anal irritation and painful urgent need to empty your bowels.

 

Rare, but serious side effects may affect the liver, kidney or changes in blood count. However, report any allergic skin reaction, yellowing of the skin, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties, persistent fever accompanied by sore throat, numbness or tingling sensations of hand and feet or any bothersome side effects to your doctor immediately.

Before taking Mesalazine Rectal Foam , what precautions must I follow?

Do not use Mesalazine Rectal Foam if you are allergic to any salicylates (e.g. aspirin) or sulphasalazine without consulting your doctor.

Please tell your doctor if you take or use any of the medicines mentioned below as the effects of these medicines may change (interactions):

  • Certain agents that inhibit blood clotting (medicines for thrombosis or to thin your blood, e.g. warfarin)
  • Azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine or thioguanine (medicines used to treat immune disorders).

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription.

This medicine also contains excipients that include sulphite, propylene glycol and cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause allergic reactions e.g. difficulty breathing and mild skin reactions.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Mesalazine Rectal Foam ?

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - Dosage and How to Use

How should Mesalazine Rectal Foam be used?

Mesalazine Rectal Foam is usually administered once a day at bedtime after emptying your bowels. The usual dose is one to two spray actuations (each spray actuation contains 1 g of mesalazine; each can contains 14 actuations). If you have difficulty retaining two spray actuations of mesalazine, it may be administered in two separate doses; one at bedtime and the other during the night or early in the morning (after excreting the first dose).

Mesalazine Rectal Foam may only be used rectally, so it has to be inserted through the anus. It is not intended to be taken by mouth. Do not swallow.

Preparing to use the foam Using the foam​

Step 1:

 

Push the applicator firmly onto the spout of the spray can.

Shake the spray can for about 20 seconds to mix the contents.

​Step 1:

 

Place your index finger on the top of pump dome and turn the can upside down. Please note that the spray will only work properly when held with the pump dome pointing down.

Step 2:

 

Before first use, remove the safety lock (plastic flap) from under the pump dome.

Step 2:

 

Insert the applicator into your rectum as far as possible. The best way to do this is to place one foot on a chair or stool. To administer a dose of Salofalk rectal foam, push down fully the pump dome once and slowly release it.

For the second spray, push the dome again and release slowly. Wait 10-15 seconds before withdrawing the applicator as the foam still expands a little and would otherwise drop out of the applicator.

Step 3:

 

Twist the dome on the top of the spray can until the semi-circular gap underneath is in line with the nozzle. The spray can is now ready for use.

Step 3:

 

After administering the foam, remove the applicator and dispose of it as household waste in the plastic bag provided. Use a new applicator for another administration.

Wash your hands and try not to empty your bowels until the next morning.

 

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Do not take a larger than normal dose of Mesalazine Rectal Foam next time, but continue treatment at the prescribed dosage.

What should I do if I overdose?

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - Handling

How should I handle Mesalazine Rectal Foam safely?

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - Storage

How should I store Mesalazine Rectal Foam ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;# Discard after 12 weeks of opening. Do not force open, pierce or burn the empty container, even after use and make sure that you do not spray near a flame or incandescent material.

How should I dispose of Mesalazine Rectal Foam safely?

Mesalazine Rectal Foam - Additional Information

  • Updated on 10/14/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy Department KK Women's and Children's Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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