Mesalamine (5-ASA): uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Mesalamine reduces gut inflammation in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It belongs to the Laxative & bowel (IBD) medicine group. These relieve constipation or treat inflammatory bowel disease.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Laxative & bowel (IBD) medicine
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Treats flare-ups of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis
Keeps ulcerative colitis in remission
Sometimes used in Crohn's disease affecting the colon
Available as tablets, granules, suppositories or enemas for different parts of the bowel

Common brand names

India: Mesacol, Octasa, Tidocol
Worldwide: Asacol, Pentasa, Lialda

Common side effects

Headache
Nausea or tummy pain
Diarrhoea
Rash

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about kidney problems; kidney blood tests are done regularly
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to aspirin or salicylates
Mention pregnancy or breastfeeding; usually continued under specialist advice

When to see a doctor urgently

Unexplained bruising, bleeding, sore throat or fever (urgent)
Severe tummy pain, bloody diarrhoea worsening, or chest pain with fever
Severe rash or allergic swelling (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of mesalamine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is mesalamine a steroid?

No. It is an anti-inflammatory that acts mainly on the gut lining, unlike steroids which act throughout the body.

Do I keep taking it when I feel well?

Often yes, because it helps prevent flare-ups; do not stop without talking to your doctor.

Why do I need blood tests?

Rarely it can affect the kidneys or blood counts, so regular checks are advised.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.