sulfasalazine

In clinical studies, conventional DMARDs, such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), haven't been shown to raise the risk of cancer in people with RA. In fact, some studies suggest that sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) might possibly help to slow down the growth of stomach or pancreatic cancer. Please be aware that more research is still needed on the effect of sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) on cancer. Talk with your provider if you have any questions.

Some organizations might consider sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) an immunosuppressant, and others might not. This anti-inflammatory medication might not directly affect your immune system. But though rare, it might cause a drop in your white blood cell count in the first few months of treatment. As a result, this can weaken your immune system and raise your risk of serious infections. Talk with your provider if you're concerned about how sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) might affect your immune system.

There isn't a set amount of time that you should take sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). In general, you should take sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) for as long as directed by your provider. Don't stop taking this medication, unless you experience serious side effects or an allergic reaction. As long as you're not having bothersome side effects, it's especially important to continue treatment with sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), even if you feel better. Otherwise, your symptoms might come back or worsen. Follow up with your provider to discuss how long you should take sulfasalazine (Azulfidine).

Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) isn't known to cause weight gain or weight loss. But it might cause diarrhea, which can contribute to a little weight loss if the side effect is severe. In addition, this medication can cause nausea and stomach upset, which can lower your appetite and potentially affect your weight. Typically, taking sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) with food can help alleviate nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Let your provider know if your stomach upset doesn't go away or if you're having bloody diarrhea. Your provider might recommend that you temporarily stop taking this medication and restart at a lower dose when you feel better.

Yes, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) is a sulfa drug. This means that you might have an allergic reaction to sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) if you're allergic to sulfa medications, such as Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim). Let your provider or pharmacist know if you've had allergic reactions to any medications in the past.

Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) isn't an NSAID, or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. But after you take the medication, it gets broken down in your body into a chemical called 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). 5-ASA has a similar chemical structure to aspirin, which is an NSAID. Don't take sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) with other NSAIDs, especially aspirin, unless directed by your provider. Otherwise, you might be at higher risk for harm.

It's best to avoid or limit drinking alcohol if you're taking sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). This medication can cause stomach problems, such as nausea and vomiting. Drinking too much alcohol while you're taking this medication might worsen these side effects. In addition, if you have UC, drinking too much alcohol can cause your UC symptoms to get worse. Speak with your provider about your drinking habits. Ask your provider for tips on how to lower the amount you consume if you drink alcohol regularly and need guidance on limiting or avoiding alcohol.