Azulfidine (Sulfasalazine)

Sulfasalazine is a drug that is used primarily for treating ulcerative colitis. It is a prodrug, that is, it is not active in its ingested form. It is broken down by bacteria in the colon into 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), and sulfapyridine.

Directions

Adult doses range from 1000 mg to 4000 mg daily. Sulfasalazine is administered 2 to 4 times daily depending on the disease for which it is used. Sulfasalazine should be taken with a full glass of water after meals or with food to minimize upset stomach. Patients with kidney diseases may need to use lower doses of sulfasalazine.

Side Effects

Possible side effects of Azulfidine 500 mg are as follows. However, these are only temporary and may go away once the treatment is completed.

• Upset stomach
• A headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy and tiredness
• Temporary male infertility reverses once the medication is stopped.

Serious side effects are listed below. Medical attention should be taken as soon as these signs are noticed.

• Painful urination
• Blood in urine
• Body pains
• Unusual hunger
• Cold sweat
• Numbness of the hands and feet