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Side Effects - Oral Mesalamine [Asacol, Pentasa, Mesasal, Salofalk]

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 17, 2004

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Common Side Effects:

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

  • abdominal or stomach cramps or pain (mild)
  • diarrhea (mild)
  • dizziness; headache (mild)
  • runny or stuffy nose or sneezing
Less frequent or rare:

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

  • acne
  • back or joint pain
  • gas or flatulence
  • indigestion
  • loss of appetite
  • loss of hair
Always Notify Doctor:

Less common

  • abdominal or stomach cramps or pain (severe)
  • bloody diarrhea
  • fever
  • headache (severe)
  • skin rash and itching

Rare

  • anxiety
  • back or stomach pain (severe)
  • blue or pale skin
  • chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder
  • chills
  • fast heartbeat
  • nausea or vomiting
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling of the stomach
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • yellow eyes or skin

Symptoms of an Overdose:
  • Confusion; diarrhea (severe or continuing)
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • drowsiness (severe)
  • fast or deep breathing
  • headache (severe or continuing)
  • earing loss or ringing or buzzing in ears (continuing)
  • nausea or vomiting (continuing)

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor. This information is meant only as a guideline - always consult a physician or pharmacist for complete information about prescription medications.

Return to Medication Side Effects Index

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