Drug Uses

Azulfidine is used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and as an adjunctive therapy in severe ulcerative colitis. It is also used for the treatment of Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

Depending on the condition of the patient the dosage can range from 500mg to 2000mg, and the dosing interval can be every 6 hours to every 12 hours.

You may choose to take Azulfidine with a meal to avoid an upset stomach.

Please drink a full glass of water with Azulfidine.

Patients with kidney disease should use a lower dosage of Azulfidine.


Drug Class and Mechanism

Azulfidine is basically a sulfonamide that helps to decrease inflammation and regulates the immune system.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Azulfidine at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). You may also store it between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) for a brief period. Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Azulfidine if you are allergic to sulfonamides (sulfa drugs) or any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like severe allergic reaction to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin.

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.

Your condition might be monitored or the dosage might be modified to suit you if you have conditions like severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness.

Drink more fluids when you are using this medicine.

Avoid prolonged exposure to sun as this medication increases the sensitivity of your skin to the sun. Use a sun screen.

Doctors may prescribe certain laboratory tests to determine how you have responded to treatment and to gauge the severity of the side effects of Azulfidine. Please Keep all lab appointments and do not miss any tests.


Pregnancy Info

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Azulfidine as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.