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Dipentum

In this factsheet:
• How does Dipentum work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use Dipentum?
• What form(s) does Dipentum come in?
• Who should NOT take Dipentum?
• What side effects are possible with Dipentum?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for Dipentum?
• What other drugs could interact with Dipentum?

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How does Dipentum work? What will it do for me?

Olsalazine belongs to the group of medications known as anti-inflammatories. This medication is used to treat ulcerative colitis, a disease involving inflammation of the bowel. It is used to prevent attacks of the disease, and for the long-term maintenance of remission in people with ulcerative colitis.

Olsalazine is also used to treat mild to moderate attacks of ulcerative colitis, sometimes in combination with a class of anti-inflammatory medications called corticosteroids. It works by decreasing inflammation in the bowel.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Dipentum?

The recommended adult dose for treatment of attacks is usually increased slowly over a one-week period starting with 500 mg (2 capsules) daily and increasing to an average adult dose of 2 capsules 4 times daily. The recommended adult dose for prevention of attacks is 500 mg (2 capsules) 2 times daily. The dose for children is based on the age and weight of the child.

Take olsalazine at regular intervals together with meals, without exceeding more than 1 g at any one time. This medication should be taken in evenly divided doses.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Dipentum come in?

Each opaque, beige, hard gelatin capsule contains 250 mg olsalazine sodium. Nonmedicinal ingredients: magnesium stearate, black iron oxide, caramel, gelatin, and titanium dioxide.

Who should NOT take Dipentum?

Olsalazine should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to olsalazine or to any of the ingredients of the medication
• is allergic to salicylates (e.g., ASA)

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