Sulfasalazine is a drug that is used primarily for treating ulcerative colitis. It is also indicated for use in rheumatoid arthritis and used in other types of inflammatory arthritis (e.g. psoriatic arthritis) where it has a beneficial effect.
Before taking Sulfasalazine
To make sure you can safely take Sulfasalazine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
asthma;
kidney or liver disease;
allergic to any other medications;
pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
Sulfasalazine side effects:
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects have included vomiting (in up to 2.5 percent), mild nausea, upset stomach (greater than 1% to less than or equal to 3%), diarrhea, loss of appetite. The use of enteric-coated preparations may decrease gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Respiratory
Respiratory side effects have included shortness of breath, fibrosing alveolitis.
Nervous system
Nervous system side effects have included headache (2% to 4%), ringing in your ears, dizziness (greater than 1% to less than or equal to 3%), malaise, insomnia, vertigo, hearing loss, ataxia, drowsiness, and dysphasia.
Musculoskeletal
Musculoskeletal side effects have included chest pain, muscle pain, and myopathy.
Genitourinary side effects have included painful urination (greater than 0.1% to less than or equal to 1%), blood in the urine, impotence (rare), urinary tract infections.
Other
Other side effects have included mild itching, sore throat, peeling, red skin rash, fever.
What other information should I know?
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
