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salofalk (mesalazine) doseage increase

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 12/6/2010 11:02 AM (GMT 0)
Hi everyone, first time on this website.
I was diagnosed with UC about 5 years ago, took a course of Salofalk tablets and came good in around 6 months. Then two years all okay until April this year. Specialist decided on Salofalk granules 3 mg per day. UC did not respond as well so specialist upped the dose to 4.5 mg per day, while at the same time introducing metamucil and Inner Health Plus. Virtually the next day I suffered severe nausea and headaches. I stopped Metamucil and continued the rest for another week.
Nausea, lack of appetite, lethargy, metallic taste in mouth continued so I stopped the IHP. My specialist said my symptoms sound like those of someone who is allergic to the medication, however, I have taken them before. I have since dropped the dose to 2 mg but still have a horrible taste in my mouth, a dry cough and still loss of appetitie. Recent bloods tests show inflammation and urine test shows white blood cells. I am at a loss. Trying to force myself to eat to keep energy up but feel yuck.
Has anyone had a similar reaction? Any comments would be welcomed. Sorry for the long boring story.

kramer63
Posted 12/6/2010 1:53 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, and welcome to the forum!
You stopped the salofalk after you got out of the flare 5 years ago.....? Many of us stay on a maintenance dose because there is some evidence that stopping and restarting it, the meds might not work as well the next time around.
On the other hand, there are some folks here on the forum who take them only in flares.
Unfortunately UC does not always respond the same way to the same meds as the years go on.

Is the Inner Health Plus a probiotic? I've been able to get out of flares with probiotics - VSL is what I use, the double-strength, prescription kind.

I'm not a doctor but my guess is that your doc is right, and maybe you've become intolerant to the Salofalk. If I were you I might try to restart the Metamucil and probiotics, but gradually (like, the Metamucil in one small spoon or one capsule a day to start.)

Are you have multiple stools, urgency, bleeding, pain.....?
I'm sorry for your troubles, but again, welcome!
Posted 12/6/2010 5:33 PM (GMT 0)
Hi...you should also be on rectal salofalk enemas.

It would be grams, not mg.

Welcome to the forum.

You could consider asking the doc for the pills rather than the granules.

q
Posted 12/7/2010 10:35 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, and thanks for the replies. After reading what you all take and go through on a daily basis, I almost feel ashamed at my complaining.
I value all your opinions and will take it all on board. The doctor did give me a script for enemas so I might start using that too. I'm waiting for some more tests to come back. At the moment, I just want my appetite to return as the weight loss and lethargy is difficult while working full-time and everything. I'm a little scared to take any other medication at the moment until I feel a little better but I will definitely discuss this with my doctor. Sorry it is 'g' and not 'mg' - i was taking the 500 mg sachets too. My brother also has UC and coealics and was diagnosed at the age of 19 (he is now 41). He is on a maintenance program and was also amazed that I had 2 years UC free. Thank you once again for your comments and advice, I really do appreciate it. Please keep well and I will keep you all posted.
Posted 12/7/2010 1:07 PM (GMT 0)
I hope the enemas help you! They are so helpful to so many people here.
This is a wonderful place to ask questions and learn, and no question is too small! We all need to learn how to interpret our own symptoms and advocate for ourselves!
Posted 12/7/2010 4:20 PM (GMT 0)
Try not to wait too long before starting the enemas...use them now or later...now would be better.

q
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