Sulfasalazine
Azulfidine (sulfasalazine) is a brand-name medication used primarily to treat inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and related arthropathies. It works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system's abnormal response that contributes to these conditions.
Azulfidine is an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive medication used for ulcerative colitis and certain forms of inflammatory arthritis.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202770
- Generic
- Azulfidine
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Azulfidine is used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (as adjunctive therapy), rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis when other treatments have not been fully effective.
Azulfidine is a prodrug that is broken down by colonic bacteria into sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicylic acid. It works by reducing inflammation through inhibition of prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis, as well as modulating inflammatory cytokines and immune cell activity.
Azulfidine should not be used by individuals with sulfa allergies or porphyria. Regular blood monitoring is required due to risk of blood disorders. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and GI upset. It may cause photosensitivity, and men should be aware of potential reversible infertility. Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed September 3, 2026. · Read our editorial policy