What is Lialda?

Lialda (Mesalamine) is a medication used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, a condition casing swelling and sores in the lining of the colon and rectum. Lialda is also used to prevent the symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding and stomach pain from returning. Mesalamine is an anti-inflammatory agent and works by stopping the body producing certain substances which then helps to reduce the swelling within the colon.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Lialda should be taken orally with a meal and is typically prescribed to be taken once daily.
• Mesalamine should be swallowed whole. Crushing, chewing or breaking the tablets may keep the drug from being properly released into the colon.
• Your mesalamine dosage is based on your medical conditions and response to treatment. Do not increase or change your mesalamine dosage unless advised by a doctor.
• Lialda is most effective when taken regularly. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of kidney disease, liver disease, stomach blockage or skin problems.
• If you are breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Children and teenagers should not take this medication, aspirin or similar medications if they have chickenpox, flu or any other undiagnosed illness. Children and teenagers should also not use this medication if they have recently received a vaccine.
• This medication should only be used when clearly needed during pregnancy.

Common mesalamine side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Headaches.
• Abdominal pain.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Lialda side effects:

• Signs of worsening ulcerative colitis such as increased abdominal pain, cramping, bloody diarrhea or fever.
• Change in your amount of quantity, dark urine, persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach or abdominal pain, jaundice, chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, dizziness, breathing problems or swelling of the face, tongue or throat.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of mesalamine?

A: Take your missed dose as soon as you realize. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip your missed dose and continue to take your medication regularly. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Q: What is the Lialda generic alternative?

A: Generic Lialda is known as Mesalamine delayed release and is available in the same 1200mg strength. Buying mesalamine delayed release online with Canada Drugs can help you to get even better savings.

Q: What else is Lialda called?

A: Brand name Lialda is also known as Mezavant internationally. Mezavant is not the generic alternative of Lialda but the same medication with a different name in some international markets.