Mezavant (Mesalazine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Mezavant Used For?
Mezavant contains mesalazine, which is an anti-inflammatory medication used primarily for treating ulcerative colitis.
Primary Uses
It is used to treat flare-ups of ulcerative colitis and to help prevent its recurrence.
How It Works
Mezavant acts throughout the colon and rectum to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
Good to know: Mezavant is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Mezavant
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Mezavant, ensuring you take it consistently.
Dosage Instructions
Adults typically take 2.4g to 4.8g (two to four tablets) once daily for acute ulcerative colitis. After symptoms improve, the dose may be reduced to 2.4g (two tablets) once daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember the next day. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Important: Never double dose to compensate for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headache
- tiredness
- indigestion
- mild stomach pains
- excessive gas
- increased bowel movements
- nausea
- vomiting
- rash or itchy skin
- fever
- loss of strength
- muscle, joint, or back pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- severe stomach pain
- bloody stools
- fever
- unexplained bruising
- rash
- anaemia
- sore throat
- allergic reactions
- severe pain in the back or stomach
- trouble urinating
- increased blood pressure
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings to consider before using Mezavant.
Who Should Not Take Mezavant
Do not use Mezavant if you are allergic to mesalazine, salicylates, or any other ingredients in the medication.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any kidney problems, heart inflammation, previous allergic reactions to mesalazine or sulphasalazine, stomach blockages, skin conditions, or severe skin reactions with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Mezavant.
- mesalazine or sulphasalazine
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)
- azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine
- warfarin or other coumarin-type anticoagulants
Alcohol & Driving
Mezavant is unlikely to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Mezavant.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Mezavant should not affect your ability to drive or use machines.
Storage
Store Mezavant in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mezavant may take some time to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and it's important to continue taking it as prescribed.
You can take Mezavant with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day.
No, Mezavant is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Mezavant suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to a return of symptoms.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Mezavant.
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Mezavant.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any potential risks with their doctor before taking Mezavant.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember the next day. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.