Generic Pentasa

Introduction

Pentasa is an oral and rectal formulation of mesalamine (5‑aminosalicylic acid) that belongs to the Gastro Health group of medicines. In the United Kingdom it is prescribed primarily to induce and maintain remission in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease affecting the colon. The drug is manufactured by Ferring Pharmaceuticals and is also available in delayed‑release tablet, granule, and suspension forms. By delivering mesalamine directly to the intestinal mucosa, Pentaza reduces local inflammation while limiting systemic exposure.

What is Pentasa?

Pentasa is a brand‑name medication that contains the active compound mesalamine, a 5‑ASA derivative. It is classified as an aminosalicylate and is marketed for the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease with colonic involvement. The product was developed by Ferring in the early 199s and has since been approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Pentasa tablets utilise a pH‑dependent coating that releases mesalamine at pH ≥ 7, allowing the active ingredient to reach the terminal ileum and colon where it exerts its anti‑inflammatory effect.

How Pentasa Works

Mesalamine works locally in the gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting cyclo‑oxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase pathways, which lowers the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes—key mediators of intestinal inflammation. It also scavenges free radicals and down‑regulates nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB), a transcription factor that drives cytokine release. Because the drug is released at a high pH, most of the mesalamine remains within the lumen of the colon and terminal ileum, providing a high local concentration with minimal systemic absorption. The therapeutic effect typically begins within 1–2 weeks of consistent dosing, and steady‑state concentrations are achieved after approximately 7 days of regular use.

Conditions Treated with Pentasa

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) – An inflammatory condition confined to the colon and rectum. In the UK, UC affects about 150 – 200 per 100 000 adults, with a slight female predominance. Pentasa helps achieve remission and reduces the frequency of flare‑ups.
• Crohn’s disease (CD) with colonic involvement – Approximately 30 % of UK Crohn’s patients have disease limited to the colon (L2 phenotype). Pentasa’s delayed‑release formulation delivers mesalamine to the inflamed colonic segments, improving symptoms and mucosal healing.
• Maintenance therapy – After an initial induction of remission, continuous low‑dose Pentasa is commonly prescribed to sustain disease quiescence and limit the need for corticosteroids.

The drug does not treat extra‑intestinal manifestations of IBD (e.g., arthritis) and is not indicated for severe disease requiring biologic therapy.

Who is Pentasa For?

Pentasa is suited to adults (≥ 18 years) with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease limited to the colon, who:

• Have documented active inflammation on endoscopy or imaging;
• Require a steroid‑sparing agent for long‑term disease control;
• Prefer an oral or rectal therapy that targets the colon directly;
• Do not have a known hypersensitivity to salicylates or mesalamine.

Contra‑indications include severe hepatic impairment, severe renal dysfunction (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min), and a history of hypersensitivity to any 5‑ASA compound. Caution is advised in patients with a history of pancreatitis, narrow‑angle glaucoma, or those taking nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs).

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea, abdominal pain, or cramps
• Headache
• Flatulence or bloating
• Mild diarrhoea

Rare

• Maculopapular rash or photosensitivity
• Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST)
• Mild leukopenia or thrombocytopenia

Serious

• Acute severe colitis or worsening of IBD symptoms
• Interstitial nephritis or renal insufficiency
• Pancreatitis (rare)
• Anaphylaxis or angio‑oedema (extremely rare)

Drug‑drug interactions

• Nephrotoxic agents (e.g., cyclosporine, aminoglycosides) may increase the risk of renal impairment.
• Anticoagulants (warfarin) – mesalamine can potentiate anticoagulant effects; monitor INR closely.
• Magnesium‑containing antacids – may affect the pH‑dependent coating, potentially altering drug release.

Patients should inform their prescriber of all concomitant medicines, including over‑the‑counter products and herbal supplements.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dosing for ulcerative colitis induction: 2 g of mesalamine per day, divided as 1 g twice daily (e.g., two 1 g delayed‑release tablets). For maintenance, 1 g per day is common, although some clinicians continue the 2 g regimen in patients with frequent relapses.
• Crohn’s disease – dosing mirrors ulcerative colitis; the same 2 g per day induction schedule is used when the colon is involved.
• Missed dose – If a dose is forgotten and it is less than 12 hours until the next scheduled dose, take the missed tablet as soon as remembered. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule; do not double‑dose.
• Overdose – Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhoea. Seek immediate medical attention; treatment is supportive, with monitoring of renal function and electrolytes.
• Food and alcohol – Pentasa can be taken with or without food; however, a high‑fat meal may slightly delay drug release. Alcohol does not directly interfere with mesalamine, but excessive intake may exacerbate gastrointestinal irritation.
• Comorbidities – In patients with renal impairment, dose reduction to 1 g per day (or less) is recommended, and renal function should be assessed at baseline and periodically thereafter.

Buying Pentasa from Our Online Pharmacy

Pentasa can be purchased safely from our online pharmacy in the UK. We source the medication from licensed, MHRA‑approved suppliers, ensuring that each batch meets the strict quality standards required for UK patients.

• Affordable pricing – Our cost structure reflects near‑manufacturer pricing, providing a substantial saving compared with typical high‑street pharmacies.
• Verified quality – All products are stored in temperature‑controlled facilities and undergo third‑party verification before dispatch.
• Guaranteed delivery – Discreet packaging is used for all orders. Standard delivery takes 3–5 working days within the UK; express shipping is available within 24 hours for an additional fee.
• International access – As a pharmacy broker service, we work with overseas licensed pharmacies to obtain medicines that may be scarce locally, while maintaining full compliance with UK import regulations.
• Privacy‑focused service – Your personal data is encrypted, and shipments are unbranded to protect your confidentiality.

Choosing our pharmacy provides a reliable, cost‑effective route to obtain Pentasa when conventional channels are limited or when you seek a more convenient purchasing experience.

FAQ

• What forms of Pentasa are available in the UK?
  Pentasa is supplied as delayed‑release tablets (250 mg, 500 mg, 1 g), mesalamine granules for oral suspension, and a rectal enema. The tablet formulation is the most commonly prescribed for maintenance therapy.

• Can Pentasa be stored in a bathroom cabinet?
  The medication should be kept at controlled room temperature (15 °C – 30 °C) away from moisture and direct sunlight. A bathroom cabinet, which often experiences high humidity, is not recommended.

• Does the coating on Pentasa tablets ever wear off during transport?
  The pH‑dependent coating is applied during manufacturing and remains stable under standard shipping conditions. Only exposure to extreme heat or moisture could compromise the coating, which is why we ship in sealed, climate‑controlled packages.

• Is it safe to travel internationally with Pentasa?
  Yes, provided you carry a copy of the prescription or a medical letter. Keep the medication in your hand luggage to avoid temperature fluctuations in the hold, and ensure it remains within the recommended storage temperature range.

• How does Pentasa differ from older 5‑ASA products such as Asacol?
  Pentasa releases mesalamine over a broader pH range (starting at pH ≥ 7) compared with Asacol, which begins release at pH ≥ 7. but may have a slightly later onset. Clinical studies show comparable efficacy, though individual response can vary.

• Are there any known interactions between Pentasa and herbal supplements?
  St. John’s wort and high‑dose magnesium supplements may alter gut pH, potentially affecting drug release. It is advisable to discuss any herbal products with your healthcare professional before starting Pentasa.

• What monitoring is required while taking Pentasa?
  Baseline liver function tests and renal function are recommended, followed by periodic assessments (typically every 3–6 months) to detect rare hepatic or renal adverse events early.

• Can Pentasa be used during pregnancy?
  Mesalamine is classified as Category B in the UK, indicating no proven risk in animal studies and insufficient human data. It is generally considered safe when the benefits outweigh potential risks, but treatment decisions should be made jointly with a specialist obstetrician.

• Does Pentasa have a different appearance in different countries?
  Yes. In the UK tablets are white, round, and scored; in some EU markets they may be blue‑tinted. The imprint code (e.g., “F[250]”) remains consistent, allowing verification of authenticity.

• What should I do if my Pentasa tablets dissolve before I can swallow them?
  Do not consume partially dissolved tablets, as this may alter the release profile. Contact our pharmacy for a replacement; keep the damaged tablets for reference in case the supplier needs to investigate a packaging issue.

Glossary

Mesalamine

The active anti‑inflammatory compound in Pentasa, also known as 5‑aminosalicylic acid (5‑ASA).

pH‑dependent coating

A polymer layer that dissolves only when the surrounding environment reaches a specific acidity/alkalinity, ensuring targeted drug release in the intestine.

Mucosal healing

Restoration of the intestinal lining to a normal appearance on endoscopy, indicating effective control of inflammation.

Renal clearance

The volume of plasma from which a drug is completely removed by the kidneys per unit time; important for dosing adjustments in kidney disease.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Pentasa is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Pentasa for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.