Rowasa
Generic name:mesalamine
Brand names: Rowasa, sfRowasa
Dosage form: rectal enema
Drug class:5-aminosalicylates
What is Rowasa?
Rowasa (mesalamine, sfRowasa) is an enema used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis, proctosigmoiditis and proctitis. It is a liquid suspension for topical use that you instill into your rectum using a small bottle with an applicator tip.
Rowasa contains the drug mesalamine, which is also known as mesalazine or 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). It belongs to a class of drugs called aminosalicylates.
Rowasa is thought to work by blocking the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) and inhibiting prostaglandin production in the colon, which helps to reduce inflammation. COX and prostaglandins (a group of lipids) are both involved in generating an inflammatory response. Rowasa is thought to work locally to reduce inflammation in the epithelial cells that line the colon.
Rowasa was the first mesalamine product to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ulcerative colitis when it was approved in 1987.
Rowasa contains a sulfite called potassium metabisulfite, which some people are sensitive too, particularly people who have asthma or other atopic conditions. A sulfite-free Rowasa enema called sfRowasa is also available.
What is Rowasa used for?
Rowasa is a prescription medication used to treat active mild-to-moderate distal ulcerative colitis, proctosigmoiditis or proctitis in adults.
Important information
Rowasa is for rectal use only. Do not take Rowasa by mouth.
Who should not use Rowasa?
Do not use Rowasa, including sfRowasa, if you are, or suspect you are, hypersensitive to salicylates, aminosalicylates, sulfites or any other component of this medication.
What should I tell my doctor before using Rowasa?
Before using Rowasa, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, including if you:
- have kidney problems
- have liver problems
- have a history of allergic reaction to the medicine sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
How should I use Rowasa?
- Use Rowasa exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- It is important for you to stay well hydrated during treatment with Rowasa. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Rowasa.
- The recommended dose of Rowasa is one bottle (4 grams) instilled once daily at bedtime for 3 to 6 weeks. Your doctor will tell you what dose is right for you.
- Empty your bowels before instilling Rowasa if possible.
- Remove the Rowasa bottles from their protective foil pouch by tearing the pouch or using scissors. Take care not to squeeze or puncture the bottles.
- Rowasa suspension is an off-white to tan color. Once the foil-wrapped unit of seven bottles is o..
