Using Pentasa Granules to treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Pentasa granules are a prescription medicine that treat mild to moderate Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Pentasa granules are tiny granules that contain mesalazine (also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA). Mesalazine is an anti-inflammatory agent, similar to aspirin, and is thought to work by reducing inflammation in the bowel.

When Pentasa granules are swallowed they travel from the stomach through the small bowel and large bowel to the rectum, releasing mesalazine continuously as they go (called prolonged release), treating the inflammation.

How to take Pentasa Granules

There are several ways to take Pentasa:

• With Water or Juice.
• With Yoghurt.

With Water or Juice

• Tear or cut to open the sachet along the dotted line.
• Empty the contents (Pentasa granules) of the sachet onto the tongue and wash down with water or juice.
• Swallow the Pentasa granules whole without chewing or crushing.

With Yoghurt

• Tear or cut to open the sachet along the dotted line.
• The entire content of the sachet can be taken with yoghurt and consumed immediately.
• Swallow the Pentasa granules whole without chewing or crushing.

Follow all directions given to you by your Doctor or Pharmacist carefully.

If you do not understand the instructions on the packaging, ask your Doctor or Pharmacist for help.

Further information about Pentasa Granules

For further information about this medicine please refer to the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI).  The CMI contains information about what your medicine is, what it treats and how you should take it.  It also provides information on possible side effects and what you should do if you experience any of them.  Your Doctor and Pharmacist can provide the CMI to you or you can access it on the Medsafe website, www.medsafe.govt.nz.

Questions and Answers

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