Colasa 400 

Presentation:Colasa 400 is available as delayed-release tablets, each containing Mesalazine 400 mg.Colasa 400 is a product of UniMed UniHealth Pharmaceuticals Ltd.in Bangladesh and is usually available in blister packs. The delayed-release formulation helps to deliver the medication directly to the colon.

Indications:Colasa (Mesalazine) is an aminosalicylate indicated for the treatment and maintenance of remission in:  

• Mild to moderately active Ulcerative Colitis.  
• Crohn's Disease.

Dosage and Administration:Colasa 400 tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by the physician based on the severity of the condition and individual patient response. It is recommended to take this medication on an empty stomach, 1 hour before meals.

• Adults:

  • Treatment of mild to moderately active Ulcerative Colitis: The usual dose is 800 mg (two 400 mg tablets) three times daily for 6 weeks. In some cases, the dose may be increased up to 4.8 g daily in divided doses.
  • Maintenance of remission of Ulcerative Colitis: The recommended dose is 1.6 g (four 400 mg tablets) daily in two to four divided doses, or as prescribed by the physician. A dose up to 2.4 g/day in divided doses may be given if needed.
  • Maintenance of remission of Crohn's Disease: The usual dose is as prescribed by the physician.

• Children (5 years and older):Dosage is determined based on body weight and the severity of the condition.The usual dose for treating mild to moderate Ulcerative Colitis is as follows for a duration of 6 weeks:

  • 17 to <33 kg: Two 400 mg tablets in the morning and one 400 mg tablet in the evening.
  • 33 to <54 kg: Three 400 mg tablets in the morning and two 400 mg tablets in the evening.
  • >54 kg: Adult dose. For maintenance of remission, the dosage is usually lower and determined by the physician.

Side Effects: Common side effects of Colasa (Mesalazine) may include:

• Headache  
• Nausea  
• Diarrhoea  
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting  
• Flatulence  
• Skin rash  
• Itching  

Less common side effects may include dizziness, dyspepsia, and asthenia. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as kidney problems or allergic reactions may occur.

Precautions:Colasa (Mesalazine) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to salicylates or any other component of the formulation.  

Caution should be exercised in patients with:

• Known renal dysfunction.  
• Liver disease.
• A history of allergic reactions to Sulfasalazine.

Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, asMesalazine may interact with certain medicines, such as NSAIDs and Azathioprine, potentially increasing the risk of renal reactions.¹⁸  

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation: Colasa should be given during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. Mesalazine passes into breast milk, so caution should be exercised when administering it to a nursing mother.Consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Storage:Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture.Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.