Balsalazide is a prescription medication used to manage and alleviate the symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), primarily ulcerative colitis. It belongs to the class of drugs known as anti-inflammatory agents. Balsalazide works by reducing inflammation and irritation in the colon, helping to control the symptoms associated with IBD.

This medication is available under the brand names Colazal and Giazo. Generic versions are also available.

You will need a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain balsalazide.

Balsalazide is primarily prescribed for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), particularly ulcerative colitis. It is used to:

Reduce Inflammation: Balsalazide helps decrease colon inflammation, a common characteristic of ulcerative colitis.

Alleviate Symptoms: By reducing inflammation, balsalazide can help manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and urgency.

Balsalazide may also be prescribed for other forms of IBD or for conditions not listed here.

The use of balsalazide may lead to common side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Mild side effects may include:

• Headache
  
• Abdominal pain or cramps
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Gas
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Runny nose
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Joint pain
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Allergic reactions (such as skin rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing)
  
• Worsening cough
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Chest pain
  
• Jaundice symptoms (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Back pain
  
• Rectal bleeding
  
• Flu-like symptoms
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about them, consult your healthcare provider.

Before starting treatment with balsalazide, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with balsalazide.

Specifically, discuss any history of allergies or sensitivities and any previous adverse reactions to medications.

Tell your provider if you have or have had:

• Skin conditions (like eczema)
  
• Kidney stones
  
• Liver disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Pyloric stenosis
  
• Urinary tract obstruction
  
• Gastric or duodenal ulcers
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using balsalazide to assess potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosing of balsalazide may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your situation.

It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and any other recommendations related to taking balsalazide. Balsalazide can be taken with or without food, as directed.

Do not discontinue balsalazide without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your ability to manage the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of balsalazide.

Balsalazide is available by prescription only. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe balsalazide if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether balsalazide might be right for you.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.