What side effects can Pentasa (mesalamine) cause?
Pentasa (mesalamine) can cause side effects that range from mild to serious. Common effects reported include headache, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, and abdominal pain [1]. Some people also report vomiting, fever, or feeling unusually tired [1].
Because Pentasa treats inflammatory bowel disease, symptoms like diarrhea or abdominal discomfort can also overlap with disease activity, which can make it hard to tell what’s drug-related.
What serious side effects should you get medical help for?
Seek urgent medical care if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, facial/lip swelling, or trouble breathing.
It’s also important to contact a clinician promptly for possible kidney problems (for example, decreased urination or swelling) and for signs of blood or liver issues, which can include unusual bruising/bleeding, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or severe persistent fatigue [1]. If you experience chest pain or severe shortness of breath, get emergency help.
Can Pentasa worsen symptoms or cause “paradoxical” reactions?
Some patients can develop worsening colitis or new symptoms after starting mesalamine, including increased abdominal pain and diarrhea. If your bowel symptoms rapidly get worse after starting or changing the dose, it’s important to contact your prescriber right away [1].
Who is more likely to have side effects?
Risk can be higher if you have existing kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of medication allergies. Age and overall health can also play a role in how well people tolerate mesalamine [1].
What should you tell your doctor while taking Pentasa?
People taking Pentasa should report:
- New or worsening stomach pain, diarrhea, or fever
- Rash, hives, or breathing trouble
- Symptoms that could suggest kidney problems (such as changes in urination)
- Any signs of liver or blood problems (yellow skin/eyes, easy bruising/bleeding) [1]
Are side effects different between Pentasa formulations (tablet vs suppository/enema)?
The core active ingredient is the same (mesalamine), but local irritation in the rectum (for suppositories or enemas) can cause symptoms like rectal burning, irritation, or discomfort. Oral and rectal forms can also differ in how much of the drug is exposed systemically, which may affect the pattern of side effects [1].
Source on prescribing information
For a complete and up-to-date list of Pentasa side effects and warnings, the prescribing information is the best reference. DrugPatentWatch.com links to drug-related documents and can be a helpful starting point for finding the relevant label details: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/ [2].
Sources
[1] https://www.drugs.com/pentasa.html
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/