Navigation

How Do 5-aminosalicylic Acid Derivatives Work?

HOW DO 5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID DERIVATIVES WORK?

5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives are a class of drugs used to treat active ulcerative colitis (a condition which causes swelling and sores in the lining of the colon [large intestine] and rectum), mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease (a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines, especially the colon and ileum, associated with ulcers and fistulae), and ulcerative proctitis (a mild form of ulcerative colitis). 

They are also indicated to reduce inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic progressive disease, causing inflammation in the joints resulting in painful deformity and immobility) and to treat tuberculosis in combination with other active antitubercular medications.

Inflammatory diseases cause excessive production of chemicals such as “prostaglandins” (produced by the enzymes, cyclooxygenase, and lipoxygenase) responsible for inflammation in the colon. 5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives work by blocking the activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins.

5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives are anti-inflammatory drugs that help to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.

5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives are administered via the oral route, typically three times a day with or without food, and as a suppository and an enema to be used in the rectum typically once a day at bedtime.

5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives work in the following ways:

  • They belong to a class of drugs called “aminosalicylates” that work by reducing bowel inflammation.
  • In addition, they are antituberculosis antibiotic that works by stopping or slowing the growth of bacteria.

HOW ARE 5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID DERIVATIVES USED?

5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives are used in conditions such as:

  • Ulcerative colitis (a condition that causes swelling and sores in the lining of the colon [large intestine] and rectum)
  • Crohn’s disease (a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines, especially the colon and ileum, associated with ulcers and fistulae)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (a chronic progressive disease-causing inflammation in the joints resulting in painful deformity and immobility)
  • Ulcerative proctitis (a mild form of ulcerative colitis). 
  • Tuberculosis

WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS OF 5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID DERIVATIVES?

Some of the common side effects include:

Other rare side effects include:

Information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

WHAT ARE NAMES OF 5-AMINOSALICYLIC ACID DERIVATIVES?

Generic and brand names of 5-aminosalicylic acid derivatives include: