Generic Pentasa (Mesalamine)

Introduction

Pentasa® is an oral formulation of the anti-inflammatory compound mesalamine (5-aminosalicylic acid, 5-ASA). It is approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and for maintenance therapy in mild-to-moderate Crohn’s disease that involves the colon. Pentasa is supplied as 400 mg gastro-resistant tablets that release mesalamine throughout the intestine, providing a sustained local effect with minimal systemic absorption. The drug belongs to the class of aminosalicylates, a group of agents that target the inflammatory pathways of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In addition to its labeled uses, clinicians sometimes consider Pentasa for other intestinal conditions, although such applications remain off-label.

What is Pentasa?

Pentasa is a brand-name medication that contains the active ingredient mesalamine. It is manufactured by Ferring Pharmaceuticals and marketed worldwide for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Pentasa tablets are coated with a pH-dependent polymer that dissolves at pH > 6, allowing the drug to bypass the acidic stomach and release mesalamine gradually along the small intestine and colon.

Mesalamine itself is the generic molecule that is also available under other brand names such as Asacol, Lialda, and Apriso. These products differ mainly in their delivery systems, but all aim to deliver 5-ASA directly to the inflamed bowel.

How Pentasa Works

Mesalamine exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase pathways, which reduces the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes-key mediators of intestinal inflammation. It also scavenges free radicals and down-regulates nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), further dampening the cytokine cascade that drives ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Because the drug is released locally throughout the GI tract, it achieves high mucosal concentrations while systemic exposure remains low, limiting adverse effects. The onset of symptom relief typically begins within 1-2 weeks, and therapeutic benefit is maintained as long as dosing continues.

Conditions Treated with Pentasa

• Ulcerative colitis (induction and maintenance) - Pentasa delivers mesalamine to the colon, reducing mucosal inflammation and promoting remission. Clinical trials have demonstrated comparable efficacy to other 5-ASA formulations in achieving clinical response and endoscopic healing.
• Crohn’s disease involving the colon (maintenance) - For patients with mild-to-moderate disease limited to the colon, Pentasa helps sustain remission and reduces the frequency of flare-ups.

These are the only indications formally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Pentasa

• Pouchitis - Small series and open-label studies suggest that mesalamine may improve symptoms in patients with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis after colectomy. Evidence is limited, and the indication is not approved.
• Radiation-induced proctitis - Some gastroenterology guidelines note that topical 5-ASA can modestly alleviate bleeding and pain after pelvic radiotherapy, but robust randomized data are lacking.
• Diverticular disease with chronic inflammation - Observational reports have explored mesalamine for symptomatic uncomplicated diverticulitis, but efficacy remains unproven.

All off-label applications should be undertaken only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider, given the absence of formal regulatory approval and limited safety data.

Is Pentasa the Right Medication for You?

Pentasa is most appropriate for adults who:

• Have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and require induction of remission or long-term maintenance.
• Have mild-to-moderate Crohn’s disease confined to the colon and need a maintenance strategy that avoids systemic immunosuppression.

Pentasa may be less suitable for patients with:

• Severe, fulminant IBD that necessitates hospitalization or biologic therapy.
• Known hypersensitivity to mesalamine, salicylates, or any component of the tablet coating.
• Significant renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min), as mesalamine is excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

A physician will weigh disease severity, co-existing conditions, and prior treatment response before selecting Pentasa.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Headache
• Nausea or mild abdominal pain
• Flatulence
• Mild rash or itching

These events are usually transient and resolve without intervention.

Rare

• Pancreatitis
• Interstitial nephritis or renal function decline (monitoring of serum creatinine recommended)
• Hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes)

Serious

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Acute ulcerative colitis flare despite therapy (requires immediate medical attention).

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium - May retard tablet dissolution, reducing mesalamine exposure.
• Warfarin - Some case reports suggest a modest increase in INR; monitor coagulation parameters if concurrent use is unavoidable.
• Sulfasalazine - Concomitant use is generally discouraged because both deliver 5-ASA and may amplify toxicity.

Drug-Food Interactions

• No clinically significant food interactions have been identified, but taking Pentasa with a full glass of water can aid tablet passage through the esophagus.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard dosing for ulcerative colitis induction typically starts at 2 g per day (e.g., 400 mg tablet taken five times daily) and may be increased to 4 g per day for maintenance, divided into multiple doses. For Crohn’s disease limited to the colon, the usual maintenance dose ranges from 2 g to 4 g daily, depending on disease activity and physician judgment.

Missed dose: If a dose is forgotten and it is less than 12 hours until the next scheduled tablet, take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed tablet and resume the regular schedule. Do not double-dose.

Overdose: Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or headache. In the event of a suspected overdose, seek immediate medical evaluation. Routine supportive care is the mainstay of treatment; there is no specific antidote for mesalamine toxicity.

Practical precautions: Pentasa can be taken with or without food, but a consistent intake schedule helps maintain stable drug levels. Alcohol does not interact directly, yet excessive drinking may worsen IBD symptoms. Patients should avoid operating heavy machinery if they experience dizziness or severe headache.

FAQ

• What should I do with Pentasa tablets when traveling abroad? Keep the tablets in their original blister package, stored at room temperature away from moisture. Carry a copy of the prescription (or a legitimate medical document) to comply with customs regulations in most countries.

• Can I split or crush Pentasa tablets to adjust the dose? No. Pentasa tablets are gastro-resistant; splitting or crushing destroys the coating and can lead to erratic drug release, increasing the risk of side effects.

• How long does it take for Pentasa to appear in the bloodstream after ingestion? Systemic absorption is minimal; peak plasma concentrations generally occur within 4-6 hours, reflecting the fraction that escapes the intestinal lumen.

• Is there a difference between Pentasa and other mesalamine brands in terms of efficacy? Comparative trials have shown similar efficacy for disease remission when the total daily mesalamine dose is equivalent, though the release mechanisms (pH-dependent vs. time-dependent) differ.

• Will taking Pentasa affect common laboratory tests, such as urinalysis? Mesalamine may cause a false-positive result for leukocyte esterase in urine dipsticks, but it does not interfere with most routine chemistry panels.

• What are the storage requirements for Pentasa tablets in hot climates? Store at 20-25 °C (68-77 °F) and protect from humidity; if temperatures exceed 30 °C for prolonged periods, place the blister pack in a cooler, sealed container.

• Are there any known interactions between Pentasa and over-the-counter probiotics? No clinically significant interactions have been reported; however, probiotic use should be discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure coordinated IBD management.

• Can I take Pentasa if I am pregnant or planning a pregnancy? Mesalamine is categorized as Pregnancy Category B (US) and has not shown a clear increase in fetal risk in observational studies, but the decision should be individualized with obstetric guidance.

• Why does my doctor prescribe Pentasa in divided doses rather a single large dose? Dividing the total daily dose maintains a more uniform concentration of mesalamine along the colon, enhancing anti-inflammatory coverage and reducing the likelihood of localized irritation.

• Do I need to inform my dentist before a dental procedure while on Pentasa? Generally, mesalamine does not affect dental treatment, but informing the dentist of all medications is good practice in case of rare bleeding or infection concerns.

ary

5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA)

The active anti-inflammatory component of mesalamine; it modulates prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis in the.

Gastro-resistant (or enteric-coated) tablet

A formulation designed to remain intact in the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolve only when it reaches the higher pH of the small intestine or colon.

Pouchitis

Inflammation of the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis created after surgical removal of the colon, commonly presenting with increased stool frequency, urgency, and abdominal discomfort.

Renal clearance

The volume of plasma from which a substance is completely removed by the kidneys per unit time; mesalamine is primarily eliminated unchanged via renal pathways.

Buying Pentasa from Our Online Pharmacy

Patients who encounter barriers to obtaining Pentasa through local pharmacies or insurance formularies can turn to our online pharmacy for a reliable and discreet solution. By sourcing the medication directly from licensed international suppliers, we are able to offer pentasa at prices that closely reflect the manufacturer’s cost, reducing the financial burden for many individuals.

All products are verified for authenticity and quality, ensuring that each batch complies with the regulatory standards of the country of origin. Our fulfillment network provides secure packaging and a choice of delivery options-including express service (typically 7 days) and standard airmail (approximately 3 weeks)-so you receive your medication promptly and privately.

Because we operate as a pharmacy-broker service, we collaborate with vetted overseas pharmacies that hold the necessary licenses. This model enables us to maintain strict confidentiality, safeguarding your personal information throughout the ordering and delivery process.

Choosing our online pharmacy means accessing a trusted, cost-effective pathway to Pentasa without compromising on safety, privacy, or product integrity.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Pentasa is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including those involving off-label applications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are assumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy supplies Pentasa to individuals who may experience limited availability through conventional pharmacies, insurance formularies, or who seek more affordable generic alternatives. Always discuss any medication changes with your clinician before initiating, adjusting, or stopping therapy.