Mesalamine
Pentasa is a brand-name medication containing mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid) used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases, primarily ulcerative colitis and mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease affecting the colon. It works locally in the gastrointestinal tract to reduce inflammation and help maintain remission in these chronic conditions.
Pentasa is an anti-inflammatory medication used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 196495
- Generic
- Pentasa
- 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.
Pentasa is primarily used to induce and maintain remission in ulcerative colitis, including proctitis (inflammation of the rectum). It is also prescribed for mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease affecting the colon, helping to reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.
Pentasa contains mesalazine, an aminosalicylate that works locally in the gut lining. It inhibits inflammatory chemicals (such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins) and free radicals that contribute to intestinal inflammation, helping to reduce swelling and tissue damage in the colon and rectum.
Pentasa is typically taken orally with or without food. Patients with a known allergy to aspirin or salicylates should not use this medication. Common side effects may include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Kidney function should be monitored during treatment, as mesalazine can rarely cause kidney problems. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and report any unusual symptoms promptly.
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 August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy