Brand Names

How to Use

For best results, empty your bowel just before using the rectal enema or suppository.

Keep using this drug for the full time of treat even if you begin to feel better after a few days Do not miss any doses .

For diseaseds using the enema form of this drug:

• This drug usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using this drug.
• Remove the bottles from the protective foil pouch, being careful not to squeeze or puncture them. The enema is an off-white to tan color. Contents of the enemas removed from the foil pouch may darken with time. Slight darkening will not effect the potency of the contents. However, enemas with dark brown contents must be discarded.
• Shake the bottle well to make sure that the medication is thoroughly mixed. Remove the protective cover from the applicator tip. Hold bottle at the neck so that no drug spills out.
• Lie on your left side with your left leg straight and your right knee bent in front of you for balance. You can also lie in the knee-chest position, on your knees with your chest touching the bed.
• Gently insert the rectal tip of the enema applicator pointed slightly toward your naval to prevent damage to the rectal wall. Tilt the nozzle slightly toward the back and squeeze slowly to cause the enema to flow into your rectum. Steady pressure will discharge most of the drug. After administering, withdraw and discard the bottle.
• Remain in position for at least 30 minutes to allow the drug to distribute thoroughly. Retain the drug all night if possible.

For diseaseds using the suppository form of this drug:

• This drug usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using this drug.
• Detach one suppository from strip of suppositories. Hold suppository upright and carefully remove the foil wrapper.
• Avoid excessive handling of the suppository, which is designed to melt at body temperature.
• Insert suppository - pointed end first completely into rectum with gentle pressure. Retain the suppository for 3 hours or longer, if possible, to achieve the best result.

Dosage

• For inflammatory bowel disease:
  • For enema dosage form:
    • Adults and teenagers 4 grams - 1 unit, using as directed, every night for three to six weeks.
    • Children Use and dose must be determined by your family doctor.
  • For suppository dosage form:
    • Adults and teenagers 500 milligrams - mg, inserted into your rectum, two or three times a day for three to six weeks.
    • Children Use and dose must be determined by your family doctor.

Missed dose If you miss a dose of mesalamine enema, use it as soon as possible if you remember it that same night. However, if you do not remember it until the next morning, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose of mesalamine suppository, use it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double doses.

Storage To store this drug:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat, humidity and direct light.
• Keep the enema from freezing.
• Keep the suppositories at room temperature. Do not refrigerate.
• Do not keep outdated drug or drug no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded drug is out of the reach of children.