Why is Rowasa prescribed?

Rowasa Suspension Enema, Pentasa, and Asacol are used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the large intestine and rectum). Rowasa Suspension Enema is also prescribed for inflammation of the lower colon, and inflammation of the rectum.

Rowasa Suppositories and Canasa Suppositories are used to treat inflammation of the rectum.

How should you use Rowasa?

To Use Rowasa Suspension Enema

1. Rowasa Suspension Enema comes in boxes of 7 bottles each. After the foil on the box has been unwrapped, all Rowasa Suspension Enemas should be used promptly, following your doctor's instructions. The Suspension Enema is normally off-white to tan in color, but may darken over time once its foil cover is unwrapped. You may still use the enema if it is slightly discolored, but do not use Rowasa Suspension Enema if it is dark brown. If you have any questions about using Rowasa Suspension Enema, contact your doctor.
2. Use Rowasa Suspension Enema at bedtime.
3. Shake the bottle thoroughly.
4. Uncover the applicator tip.
5. You may find it easier to use Rowasa Suspension Enema if you lie down on your left side, extending your left leg and bending your right leg forward for a comfortable balance. An alternative position is on your knees with your hips in the air and your head and shoulders down on the bed.
6. Pointing the applicator tip slightly towards the navel, gently insert the tip into the rectum.
7. Tilt the bottle slightly towards the back, then squeeze it slowly to discharge the contents.
8. Remain in position for at least 30 minutes to allow thorough distribution of the medicine. Retain the enema all night (8 hours) for best results.

Overdosage

• There have been no proven reports of serious effects resulting from overdoses of Rowasa or Canasa. An overdose of Pentasa or Asacol could cause any of the following symptoms:
  Confusion, sweating, ringing in the ears, hyperventilation, headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, vomiting

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Rowasa Suspension Enema

The usual dose is 1 rectal enema (60 milliliters) per day, preferably used at bedtime and retained for about 8 hours. Treatment time usually lasts from 3 to 6 weeks, although improvement may be seen within 3 to 21 days.

Suppositories

The usual dose is one rectal suppository (500 milligrams) 2 times a day. To get the most benefit from the suppository, it should be retained for 1 to 3 hours or longer. Treatment time usually lasts from 3 to 6 weeks, although improvement may be seen within 3 to 21 days. The dosage of Canasa may be increased to 3 suppositories daily if response is unsatisfactory after 2 weeks of therapy.

Pentasa Capsules

The usual dose is 4 capsules taken 4 times a day for a total of 16 capsules daily.

Asacol Tablets

The recommended dose for the treatment of ulcerative colitis is 2 tablets 3 times a day for 6 weeks.

To prevent a relapse, the usual dosage is 4 tablets a day, taken in 2 or more smaller doses, for 6 months.

CHILDREN

Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.

Most important fact about Rowasa

Mesalamine (Asacol), has been known to cause side effects such as:

Bloody diarrhea
Cramping
Fever
Rash
Severe headache
Sudden, the active ingredient in these products, severe stomach pain

If you develop any of these symptoms, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor.