Question 1

What is Delzicol?

Accepted Answer

Delzicol is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient mesalamine. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates, which work by suppressing inflammation directly in the lining of the digestive tract.

The medication functions by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause swelling and tissue damage. By controlling this inflammatory response, it helps manage the underlying irritation within the bowel.

Question 2

What is Delzicol used for?

Accepted Answer

Delzicol is used to treat ulcerative colitis .

Question 3

How does Delzicol work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Delzicol contains mesalamine, a type of medicine known as an aminosalicylate. It is used to treat and maintain remission in ulcerative colitis by acting locally on the lining of the lower gastrointestinal tract.

While the exact process is not fully understood, mesalamine is thought to work by:

Reducing the production of certain chemicals, such as prostaglandins, that cause inflammation in the gut.

Blocking the activity of enzymes that contribute to swelling and tissue damage.

Acting as an antioxidant to protect the lining of the colon from further irritation.

Delzicol is formulated as a delayed-release capsule. This design allows the medication to pass through the stomach and most of the small intestine without being absorbed. The medicine is released once it reaches the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon, ensuring the treatment is delivered directly to the site of the disease.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Delzicol?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Delzicol is mesalamine .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Delzicol?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Delzicol may include:

Headache

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Delzicol?

Accepted Answer

Delzicol belongs to the 5-aminosalicylic acid derivative drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Delzicol and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Delzicol

Delzicol delayed-release capsules must be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules, as they are specially coated to release the medication in a specific part of the digestive tract.

Timing and Food

This medication should be taken on an empty stomach. It is generally recommended to take your dose at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Delzicol safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Limited data are available regarding the use of Delzicol in pregnant women. While animal reproduction studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, these results do not always predict human response. It is generally recommended that this medication be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding

The active ingredient in Delzicol, mesalamine, and its metabolite are excreted in human breast milk. There have been reports of diarrhea in breastfed infants whose mothers were taking mesalamine products. Healthcare providers typically advise caution when administering this medication to a nursing woman. If breastfeeding while taking Delzicol, it is important to monitor the infant for diarrhea or other changes in bowel movements.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Delzicol come in?

Accepted Answer

Delzicol is provided in the following oral dosage form:

Delayed-release capsules: These capsules are formulated to pass through the stomach and release the medication once they reach the colon.

The capsules must be swallowed whole. Patients should not crush, chew, or break the capsules, as this can interfere with the delayed-release properties of the medication. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Delzicol?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Delzicol (mesalamine) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a delayed-release capsule. It is indicated for the following clinical uses:

Treatment of Active Ulcerative Colitis: For the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis in adults and pediatric patients 5 years of age and older.

Maintenance of Remission: For the maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis in adults.

Regulatory Classification

Delzicol is a prescription-only medication. It is part of the aminosalicylate drug class. Currently, there are no Boxed Warnings or Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) programs required by the FDA for this medication.

Pediatric Regulatory Status

The FDA has specifically approved Delzicol for use in pediatric patients aged 5 years and older for the treatment of active ulcerative colitis. This approval is based on clinical studies demonstrating its safety and efficacy in this age group, particularly for children who meet specific weight requirements.

Question 11

What should I know about Delzicol and cost?

Accepted Answer

Factors Affecting Cost

Several factors influence the out-of-pocket cost for Delzicol:

Generic Availability: Generic versions of mesalamine delayed-release capsules are available. Generic medications usually cost less than brand-name drugs like Delzicol.

Insurance Coverage: Most insurance plans, including Medicare, provide coverage for mesalamine. However, the specific cost to the patient depends on the plan formulary, deductible, and copayment tiers. Some insurance companies may require patients to try a generic version before they will cover the brand-name Delzicol.

Pharmacy Choice: Retail prices for medications can differ between pharmacies. Using mail-order pharmacy services through an insurance provider may sometimes offer lower costs for long-term prescriptions.

Financial Assistance

Patients who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for patient assistance programs. Some manufacturers also offer savings cards or coupons that can reduce the copay for those with commercial insurance. It is recommended to check with the manufacturer or a pharmacist for current programs.

Delzicol

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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