Intro About Pentasa
About Pentasa

Using Pentasa Suppositories to treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Pentasa suppositories are a prescription medicine that treat Ulcerative Colitis in the rectum, called Ulcerative Proctitis (or just proctitis).

Pentasa suppositories contain mesalazine (also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA), and work by coming into direct contact with inflamed tissue in the rectum, treating the inflammation.

How to use Pentasa Suppositories

Pentasa Suppositories are a way of administering some medicines via the rectum. 

If possible, go to the toilet and empty your bowels before using the Pentasa suppository.  The Pentasa suppository will work better if the bowel has been emptied. 

Administer the suppository as follows:

  1. Open the foil pack.
  2. Put a protector on the finger with which you will insert the Pentasa suppository.
  3. To aid insertion the suppository can be moistened with water ONLY prior to use.
  4. Insert the Pentasa suppository gently and fully into the rectum (back passage). It may help to do this lying down on one side and raising the other knee (as shown in the diagram).
  5. Remain still for a few minutes after insertion to help retain the Pentasa suppository. If the Pentasa suppository comes out within 10 minutes, a new one should be inserted.
  6. Dispose of the used finger protector safely and wash your hands.

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 Suppositories

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

  • Is Pentasa right for me?

    Your Doctor will weigh up the risks and benefits, and assess the suitability of Pentasa, before prescribing for you.

    If you have any questions about taking Pentasa ask your Doctor or Pharmacist.

  • Will I get side effects?

    Unwanted side effects can occur with any medicine. Contact your Doctor if you experience any side effects when taking Pentasa.

  • How should Pentasa suppositories be correctly stored?

    Keep your Pentasa suppositories in the packaging until it is time to use them. If you take Pentasa suppositories out of the packaging they may not keep well. Keep your Pentasa suppositories in a cool dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C.

References:

  • NZ Datasheet
  • Pentasa Suppository CMI
  • Pentasa Suppository Pack Insert

PENTASA IS A PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

Pentasa Tablets 500mg, Pentasa Enema 1g/100 ml, Pentasa Suppository 1g, Pentasa Granules (Sachets) 1g.

The active ingredient in Pentasa® is mesalazine

This medicine is used to treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Pentasa has risks and benefits. Further information on the risks and benefits of this medicine can be found HERE, and in the Consumer Medicines Information (CMI). Please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz or your Pharmacist for a copy of the CMI.

Consult your Doctor to see if this medicine is right for you. Use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your Doctor, Pharmacist or Healthcare Professional.

Pentasa Tablets 500mg, Suppositories 1g, Enemas 1g/100 ml, and Granules (Sachets) 1g are funded prescription medicines. Doctor's charges will apply.

Pharmaco (NZ) Ltd, Auckland