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Azulfidine (Sulfasalazine) is an anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (a long-term, progressive bowel disease). It is used as an added treatment in severe ulcerative colitis (chronic inflammation and ulceration of the lining of large bowel and rectum), the main symptom of why bloody diarrhea happens. Azulfidine is also prescribed to decrease severe attacks of ulcerative colitis. Because ulcerative colitis very seldom goes away by itself, the risk of recurrence may be significantly reduced by the continued use of Azulfidine. You should take Azulfidine preferably after meals or with food to avoid upset stomach. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to avoid kidney stones. Common side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and stomach distress may occur. You should also notify your doctor if some of these symptoms result from this medication. He will decide if it is safe for you to continue taking Azulfidine. If you ever had an allergic reaction to this medication along with Aspirin in the past, you should avoid taking this drug. If you have liver or kidney damage or any type of blood disease, your doctor should examine you very carefully before prescribing Azulfidine. Men who are taking this medication may temporarily experience infertility and a low-sperm count. While taking Azulfidine urine and skin may turn yellow-orange in color. If this medication is taken with certain other drugs, such as Folic acid, and Digoxin; the effects of either may decreased, increased, or altered. It is very important to check with your doctor before combining these drugs together. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should contact their doctor first. Only he can carefully individualize your dosage and monitor your response periodically. The usual prescribed initial dose is 3 to 4 grams, daily divided into smaller doses. In some cases the initial dose is 1 to 2 grams a day to lower side effects that arise from Azulfidine. You should never exceed your prescribed dose and store this medication in a tightly closed container at room temperature away from children.
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