Salazopyrin
In brief
- In our pharmacy, you can buy Salazopyrin, with delivery in 9–21 days throughout the United Kingdom. Discreet and anonymous packaging.
- Salazopyrin is intended for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. The drug acts as an intestinal anti-inflammatory agent.
- The usual maintenance dose of Salazopyrin for ulcerative colitis is 2 g/day in divided doses; for rheumatoid arthritis, treatment starts at 500 mg daily and is increased gradually.
- The form of administration is a tablet.
- The effect of the medication begins within 6–12 weeks for rheumatoid arthritis, while some effects for ulcerative colitis may be seen in 3–6 weeks.
- The duration of action can be months to years for maintenance in conditions such as ulcerative colitis.
- The most common side effect is nausea.
- Would you like to try Salazopyrin?
Basic Salazopyrin information
- INN (international nonproprietary name): Sulfasalazine
- Brand names available in the United Kingdom: Salazopyrin
- ATC code: A07EC01
- Forms and dosages: Tablets 500 mg; EN-Tabs (enteric-coated tablets) 500 mg
- Manufacturers in the United Kingdom: Pfizer
- Registration status in the United Kingdom: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
- OTC / Rx classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
Everyday use and best practices
Salazopyrin is taken in divided doses through the day, evenly spaced, so that drug levels in the body stay stable. Follow the schedule given by your prescriber.
Salazopyrin should be taken after food to minimise gastrointestinal discomfort. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water; EN-Tabs must not be crushed or chewed.
Taking it with meals, for example with breakfast and dinner, helps to form a reliable habit. Keep your healthcare professionals informed about how you get on.
What’s inside and how it works
Ingredients overview
Salazopyrin, a formulation of the active ingredient sulfasalazine, is used for certain inflammatory conditions. It is offered as 500 mg tablets, and as enteric-coated EN-Tabs, which are designed to improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Mechanism basics explained simply
In simple terms, salazopyrin functions as an intestinal anti-inflammatory agent. Once ingested, it is split by gut bacteria into sulfapyridine and mesalazine (5-aminosalicylic acid), which act on the inflamed areas of the intestines and help to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis; it also has a disease-modifying effect in rheumatoid arthritis.
Main indications
Approved uses (MHRA listing)
Salazopyrin is licensed in the UK for ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease; Salazopyrin EN-Tabs are also licensed for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Off-label uses in UK clinics
Specialists may occasionally prescribe sulfasalazine for conditions outside its licence. Discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.
Interaction warnings
Food interactions (alcohol, tea/coffee)
It is advisable to limit alcohol during treatment, as it can exacerbate side effects. Drink plenty of fluids during treatment.
Drug conflicts
Sulfasalazine can interact with other medicines, including digoxin, ciclosporin, azathioprine and warfarin. Always tell your pharmacist and prescriber about everything you take. Suspected side effects can be reported through the Yellow Card scheme.
Alternative choices
When considering alternatives to Salazopyrin for conditions like ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis, options include methotrexate or mesalazine (5-ASA). Each has its own advantages and drawbacks.
- Methotrexate: used for RA, effective but can have severe side effects; it is taken once weekly.
- Mesalazine: often better tolerated than sulfasalazine and used for inflammatory bowel disease.
A switch of medication should be considered with your specialist, taking side effects and efficacy into account; methotrexate might offer better efficacy for RA in some cases.
Regulation snapshot
Salazopyrin is regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. Patients require a prescription from a healthcare professional who evaluates their condition.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Salazopyrin:
- What are the side effects of Salazopyrin? Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- How long should I use Salazopyrin? Duration varies; it may take weeks for noticeable effects in conditions like RA.
Discuss any concerns with your prescriber.
Guidelines for proper use
UK pharmacist counselling style
When dispensing Salazopyrin, pharmacists often advise patients to take it with food to improve gastrointestinal tolerance. The pharmacist will also explain the dose and potential side effects, including that sulfasalazine can turn urine orange and that regular blood tests are needed.
NHS patient support advice
Regular communication with your healthcare team is vital for ongoing management. NHS 111 can advise on urgent concerns.
| City | Region | Delivery time |
|---|---|---|
| London | Greater London | 9–21 days |
| Manchester | North West England | 9–21 days |
| Birmingham | West Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Glasgow | Scotland | 9–21 days |
| Leeds | West Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Bristol | South West England | 9–21 days |
| Sheffield | South Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Newcastle | North East England | 9–21 days |
| Cardiff | Wales | 9–21 days |
| Nottingham | East Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Coventry | West Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Bradford | West Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Southampton | South East England | 9–21 days |
| Cardiff | Wales | 9–21 days |
