Drug Uses
Azulfidine is used for the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis; as adjunctive therapy (i.e. with other medications) in the treatment of severe ulcerative colitis; for the treatment of Crohn's disease; for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
How to use
Doses range from 500mg to 2000mg, and dosing intervals range from every 6 hours to every 12 hours, depending on the clinical condition of the patient.
Azulfidine should be taken with a full glass of water after meals or with food to minimize stomach upset. Patients with kidney diseases may need to use lower doses of azulfidine.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Azulfidine is a sulfonamide that decrease inflammation and help regulate the immune system in various areas of the body.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Zyvox, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Store Azulfidine at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Keep Azulfidine out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Warnings/Precautions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to sulfonamides (sulfa drugs) before taking this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin. A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to this medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Drinking extra fluids while you are taking this medicine is recommended. Check with your doctor or nurse for instructions. This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun or sunlamps until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period. This medicine may cause a harmless, yellow-orange discoloration of the urine or skin. If you experience difficulty breathing or tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately and before taking any more of this medicine. For women: this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.