Sulfasalazine
Uses of Sulfasalazine
Sulfasalazine is commonly used to treat Crohn's Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ulcerative Colitis.
How Sulfasalazine Works
The anti-inflammatory property of Sulfasalazine has not been clearly understood and is still under investigation in Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Side Effects of Sulfasalazine
Headache, Decreased appetite, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal discomfort, Photosensitivity, Yellow-orange staining of the urine and other bodily fluids, Hair loss, Allergic reactions
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Dose adjustment and caution use have to be practised in patients with kidney impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Sulfasalazine when used concomitantly. However, alcohol may worsen the damage upon your liver as Sulfasalazine can affect your liver as well.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Animal studies and human studies have not shown reproductive toxicities. However, Sulfasalazine may inhibit the absorption and metabolism of Sulfasalazine which is needed for foetal growth. Thus, Sulfasalazine is not advisable to be used during pregnancy unless necessary because the possibility of harm cannot be completely ruled out. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Generally Safe
Sulfasalazine usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Sulfasalazine is contraindicated in patients with liver impairment.
Lactation Not Advisable
Excretion of Sulfasalazine has been found in human breastmilk and has effects on breastfed babies. Thus, it is not advisable to be used during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
