Sulfasalazine is a medication used to treat ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although it has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the other type of IBD, Crohn's disease, physicians commonly prescribe it for this purpose as well. Sulfasalazine is available as the brand Azulfidine and in generic form.
Anemia
Sulfasalazine may decrease the absorption of folic acid, which can lead to anemia. Additionally, patients taking the drug methotrexate may not be able to take sulfasalazine because methotrexate also causes folic acid deficiency.
Blood Sugar
The effects of oral anti-diabetic medications may be increased by sulfasalazine because it decreases their elimination by the liver. This can cause abnormally-low blood sugar levels.
Kidney Considerations
Rarely, sulfasalazine has been linked to kidney failure. Patients taking this drug should drink plenty of fluids to keep the kidneys healthy. They also should avoid using medications that may affect kidney function, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Worsening Symptoms
Although sulfasalazine can relieve Crohn's disease symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal crampings, in rare cases it worsens symptoms and causes bloody diarrhea. Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach and loss of appetite also can occur.
Allergic Reaction
Some people have an allergic reaction to sulfasalazine, and rarely, a very serious reaction can occur. Signs include a blistering and peeling rash, joint and muscle aches, fatigue, fever and difficulty in swallowing.
Tags: Crohn disease, folic acid, sulfasalazine because