What does it do?

Olsalazine is used to treat and prevent inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have asthma, or have had problems with aspirin.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take olsalazine regularly as directed, with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding Severe stomach pain, nausea Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain Chest pain	Tell your doctor immediately
Diarrhoea, stomach upset	Tell your doctor
Headache	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• You will need regular blood tests while taking olsalazine to check if it is causing problems with your liver, kidneys or blood.
• You may not notice the effects of olsalazine straight away – it can take several weeks before you start to feel better.