৳ 5.05/unit
Pack: ৳ 50.50
৳ 5.05/unit
Pack: ৳ 50.50
At a glance
Sulfasalazine is a DMARD used for rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and ankylosing spondylitis. It suppresses immune system overactivity and blocks inflammatory mediators.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease (especially with colonic involvement)
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Pharmacology
Sulfasalazine is broken down in the intestine into 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and sulfapyridine. 5-ASA provides local anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting leukotriene and prostaglandin synthesis; sulfapyridine provides systemic immunomodulatory effects. It inhibits both cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, reducing production of inflammatory mediators.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Ulcerative colitis/Crohn's: Start 1-2 g 4 times daily (until remission); Maintenance 2 g/day (divided)
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Start 500 mg/day (week 1), increase by 500 mg weekly; max 3 g/day in 2-4 divided doses
- Ankylosing spondylitis: 2 g/day in 2 divided doses
Pediatric Dose (Oral):
- Ulcerative colitis (>2 years): 40-60 mg/kg/day (divided); Maintenance 20-30 mg/kg/day
- Juvenile RA (>6 years): 30-50 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses; max 2 g/day
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Headache, loss of appetite
- GI discomfort, weight loss
- Oligospermia (reversible reduction in sperm count)
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Generally safe; animal studies show low or no adverse effects; limited human data; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in hypersensitivity to sulfonamides or salicylates
- Do not use in porphyria, intestinal or urinary obstruction
- Do not use in children <2 years
- Caution in G6PD deficiency, hepatic/renal impairment
- Regular blood tests (liver, kidney function, blood counts) required
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; excessive doses may cause nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.