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Balsalazide Disodium
People who have ulcerative colitis may be prescribed balsalazide disodium (Colazal®). The medication comes in capsule form and is generally taken three times a day. It works by decreasing the production of certain chemicals in the body responsible for inflammation. In clinical studies, after eight weeks of taking balsalazide sodium, up to 55 percent of people had less blood in the stool, compared to just 35 percent of those not taking it.
Although most people tolerate this medication well, side effects are possible. Commonly reported ones include stomach pain, diarrhea, and joint pain. If you experience anything during treatment that "just does not seem right," contact your healthcare provider.
(Click Balsalazide to learn more about this drug, including important information for your healthcare provider, general dosing guidelines, and what to do in cases of overdose.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD



