What is the best way to take Pentaza?

I have inflammation at the beginning of the small intestines. Would it make more sense to take it on an empty stomach without food to make sure it dissolves and attacks the area needed?

I dont take them at meal times specifically, Just in the morning and again at night, but usually the other tablets I take have to be with food, so generally I have had something to eat before I take them anyway.

I just dig out 16 of my 250 mg Pentasa capsules and put them in a small bowl by my 'puter as I'm in and out of the 'puter room all day and evening. I see them in the the bowl and I take one or two thru out the day. By bedtime I usually only have 1, maybe 2, to take. I take them w/food and I take them w/o food.

The "recommended" or "suggested" dosage is 4 - 250 mg or 2 - 500 mg capsules 4 x a day. The IMPORTANT thing is that you get the full 4 grams of Pentasa down a day. I never take 4 at a time before a meal any more as the 4 capsules plus the water needed to get them down fills me up too much to eat a decent meal.

The Pentasa is in a timed release form so it releases thru the entire length of your small intestine. I can see why you would question taking it before meals given your Crohn's is at the beginning of your small intestine rather than the much more common terminal ileum. I think I'd be inclined to do as you are thinking and take it before meals. But then one wonders if it would remain in the stomach longer if taken WITH food.

Its a good question to ask both your gastro and your family doctor - just to get a couple of different opinions.

Thank You for the replies.