Balsalazide

Balsalazide treats an inflammatory intestinal disease called ulcerative colitis. This medication is usually taken only for a short time (8 to 12 weeks).

Balsalazide Overview

Reviewed: October 2, 2013
Updated: 

Balsalazide is a prescription medication used to treat ulcerative colitis, or inflammation of the lining of the colon. It helps relieve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis including diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain. 

Balsalazide belongs to a group of drugs called aminosalicylates. It works by stopping the body from producing a certain substance that may cause pain or inflammation in the colon.

This medication comes in capsule and tablet forms. Balsalazide capsules are usually taken up to 3 times a day, with or without food, for 8 to 12 weeks. Balsalazide tablets are taken up to 2 times a day, with or without food, for up to 8 weeks.

Common side effects of balsalazide tablets are headache, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Common side effects of balsalazide capsules are diarrhea, throat pain, and anemia.

How was your experience with Balsalazide?

First, a little about yourself

Tell us about yourself in a few words?

What tips would you provide a friend before taking Balsalazide?

What are you taking Balsalazide for?

Choose one
  • Other
  • Colitis, Ulcerative

How long have you been taking it?

Choose one
  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

How well did Balsalazide work for you?

Did you experience many side effects while taking this drug?

How likely would you be to recommend Balsalazide to a friend?

Pill Images

{{ slide.name }}
pill-image {{ slide.name }}
Color: {{ slide.color }} Shape: {{ slide.shape }} Size: {{ slide.size }} Score: {{ slide.score }} Imprint: {{ slide.imprint }}
<<
Prev
{{ slide.number }} of {{ slide.total }}
>>
Next

Uses of Balsalazide

Back to Top

Balsalazide is a prescription medication used to treat ulcerative colitis, or inflammation of the lining of the colon. It helps relieve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis including diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.

The capsules  are specifically indicated for use in adults and children who are at least 5 years old.

The tablets are specifically indicated for use in males 18 years of age or older.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Balsalazide Brand Names

Back to Top

Balsalazide may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Balsalazide Drug Class

Back to Top

Balsalazide is part of the drug class:

Side Effects of Balsalazide

Back to Top

Common side effects of balsalazide capsules include:

  • stomach pain
  • diarrhea
  • joint pain
  • runny nose
  • insomnia
  • tiredness
  • gas
  • fever
  • heartburn
  • sore throat
  • cough
  • loss of appetite
  • urinary tract infection
  • muscle pain
  • constipation
  • dry mouth

Common side effects of balsalazide tablet include:

  • anemia
  • diarrhea
  • throat pain
  • urinary tract infections
  • insomnia
  • muscle and joint pain

This is not a complete list of balsalazide side effects.  Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.  You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.