Generic name: olsalazine [ ole-SAL-a-zeen ]
Drug class: 5-aminosalicylates
What is Dipentum?
Dipentum is used to treat ulcerative colitis .
Dipentum may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies , and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Dipentum if you are allergic to Dipentum, balsalazide , mesalazine, or sulfasalazine , or to salicylates such as aspirin , Novasal, Doan’s Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.
Your treatment with Dipentum may be delayed if you have received a chickenpox vaccine (varicella, Varivax) within the past 6 weeks.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- liver disease ;
- kidney disease; or
- a skin disorder such as eczema .
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while using Dipentum.
Dipentum is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take Dipentum?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Always take this medicine with food.
Take your doses at regular intervals to keep a steady amount of the drug in your body at all times.
Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking Dipentum to keep your kidneys working properly.
If you need surgery, tell your surgeon you currently use this medicine. You may need to stop for a short time.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Dipentum.
Call your doctor if your ulcerative colitis symptoms get worse, or if you also have a fever, headache , or rash.
Store Dipentum at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Detailed Dipentum dosage information
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea , vomiting , stomach pain, diarrhea , rapid breathing, ringing in your ears, headache, dizziness , confusion, seizures .
What should I avoid while taking Dipentum?
If you have eczema or other skin problems, Dipentum could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.
Dipentum side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives ; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Dipentum may cause serious side effects. Stop using Dipentum and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe or ongoing diarrhea;
- worsening colitis (fever, stomach pain, cramping, or bloody diarrhea);
- chest pain, shortness of breath, fast or pounding heartbeats;
- low blood cell counts–fever, chills, tiredness, mouth sores, skin sores, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, cold hands and feet, feeling light-headed;
- liver problems–loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
- symptoms of kidney stones –sudden and severe pain in your lower back or side, blood in your urine, pain or burning when you urinate.
Common side effects of Dipentum may include:
- diarrhea, stomach pain;
- upset stomach ;
- rash, itching;
- headache; or
- joint pain.
source :: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/dipentum.html