Sulfasalazine

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Sulfasalazine

What is sulfasalazine and how is it used

Sulfasalazine is a type of drug known as a disease-modifying anti- rheumatic drug (DMARD). It works by modifying the underlying disease process to reduce inflammation, pain and swelling in your joints.
It can be used to treat:
* Psoriatic arthritis
* rheumatoidarthritis

Sulfasalazine doesn’t work immediately. It may be at least 12 weeks before you notice any benefit.
You shouldn’t take sulfasalazine if you’re known to have an allergy to salicylates (e.g. aspirin) or to sulphonamides (a type of antibiotic).

How and when do I take it

Sulfasalazine tablets should be taken with a glass of water. Sulfasalazine is generally prescribed as Salazopyrin EN-Tabs –
These tablets are  coated so that they don’t dissolve quickly in your stomach. They should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.
Your doctor will advise you on the correct dose – usually a low dose at first (e.g. one 500 mg tablet daily). This is usually increased gradually over a period of about four weeks – typically to two 500 mg tablets taken twice daily. The dose may be adjusted according to the severity of your symptoms.
Sulfasalazine needs to be taken regularly to keep your symptoms under control.