Balsalazide is manufactured by Salix Pharmaceuticals.
How Does Balsalazide Work?
Balsalazide belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that balsalazide works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the
colon. The medication decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
The balsalazide molecule itself is inactive. However, when it reaches the colon, bacteria enzymes split the balsalazide molecule, releasing the active forms of the medication.
In previous clinical studies, after eight weeks of taking balsalazide, up to 55 percent of people had less blood in the stool, compared to just 35 percent of those not taking balsalazide. The drug also helped people have fewer trips to the toilet.