Salazopyrin is the Canadian brand name for the medication sulfasalazine (marketed as azulfidine in the United States). It is commonly used as a treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis) and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by preventing and suppressing inflammation, thus helping relieve the progression of the disease.
Common Side Effects
Salazopyrin, like almost all prescription medications, can cause certain unwanted side effects. Some of the more common ones include anorexia (loss of appetite), headache and gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort or pain. Some patients also experience increased sensitivity to sunlight, which may cause them to tan or get sunburned more easily. These side effects are not considered to be serious, and so if you experience them, you should continue to take salazopyrin and only contact your doctor if they persist or cause unbearable discomfort.
Allergic Effects
Salazopyrin contains sulfasalazine, which is not made in the body. This means that taking it can cause a serious allergic reaction. Stop taking salazopyrin immediately if you develop a rash, hives or blisters. Other symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, and pain or tightness in the chest. Some patients also develop swelling of their face, lips and tongue. Allergic reactions can be very serious, and if you experience them, stop taking salazopyrin immediately and contact your doctor.
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects for salazopyrin are serious. The appearance of these reactions is cause to stop taking salazopyrin and to contact your doctor immediately. These adverse effects include aching in your joints, a persistent headache and a fever. Other adverse effects include bloody diarrhea, yellowing of the eyes and skin (a sign of liver damage), blue fingernails or skin, anemia and pallor, and a tendency to bleed or bruise more than normal. These side effects may indicate serious organ damage. If you experience any of these, stop taking salazopyrin and talk to your doctor.
Member Comments