The Web Health

Sulfazine

Generic name: sulfasalazine [SUL-fa-SAL-a-zeen]
Brand names: Azulfidine, Azulfidine EN-tabs, Sulfazine
Drug classes: 5-aminosalicylates, antirheumatics

The Sulfazine brand name has been removed in the U.S. If the generic version of this drug is accepted by the FDA, There may be generic alternatives available.

What is sulfazine?

Sulfazine can be used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) and reduce the incidence of UC attacks. It is not a cure for ulcerative colitis, but it will decrease the number of attacks you experience. Sulfazine is also used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in adults and children who have tried other arthritis drugs that didn't work, did not work, or stopped working. Sulfazine is also employed for purposes that are not covered in this medication guide.

Side effects of Sulfazine

Seek medical attention immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction (hives, breathing problems, and swelling of your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin irritation, and skin that is red or purple and causes peeling and blistering),

Get medical attention in the event of an adverse reaction to a drug that affects multiple parts of your body. Symptoms may include an itch on your skin and swelling of glands, fever, muscle aches and weakness, extreme swelling, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.

You could contract infections more easily, including fatal or serious infections. Call your doctor immediately if you notice symptoms of infection, like:

  • Chills, fever, colds, sore throat
  • Mouth sores; gums that are red or swollen;
  • Pale skin, easily bruising, no unusual bleeding,
  • Chest pain, wheezing, dry cough, or hack rapid weight loss.

Also, contact your doctor immediately if you have:

  • Fever, headache, rash, and vomiting;
  • An itch on the skin, however mild;
  • Intense nausea or vomiting at the time you begin taking sulfazine.
  • Very little or no urination; urine that appears foamy;
  • Puffy eyes, swelling of your feet or ankles, weight gain, puffy eyes;
  • Issues with the liver, such as a loss of appetite and stomach pain (upper right side). dark urine; jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin).

Common adverse effects of sulfazine include:

  • Nausea vomiting, nausea nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
  • Headache;
  • The rash or
  • Low sperm count among males.

This is not an all-inclusive list of side effects. Others could happen. Contact your doctor to seek medical advice regarding adverse effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

It is not recommended to use sulfazine when you have porphyria, which is a blockage of your intestines or bladder, or if you have an allergy to sulfa medications, aspirin, or similar medications known as salicylates.

Before you take this drug

You should not take sulfazine if you are allergic to it or if you suffer from:

  • A blockage in your bladder or the intestines;
  • Porphyria (a genetic disorder of enzymes that can lead to symptoms that affect the nervous system, skin, or nerves);
  • An allergy to sulfa-containing drugs; an allergy to sulfa-based drugs;
  • The allergy to aspirin and other salicylates (such as Nuprin Backache Caplet, Kaopectate, KneeRelief, Pamprin Cramp Formula, Pepto-Bismol Tricosal, Trilisate, and others).

Speak to your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with:

  • Frequent infections;
  • Asthma
  • lower blood cells Low blood cell counts
  • Kidney or liver disease.

Inform your doctor if you're expecting. Taking sulfazine can make it difficult for your body to absorb the folic acid, and folic acid can prevent serious birth defects that affect the baby's spine or brain. It is possible that you will need supplements for folic acid if you are taking this medication during pregnancy. Follow the instructions of your doctor. Sulfasalazine may pass through breast milk and result in diarrhea or bloody stool in a nursing infant. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Sulfazine has not been approved for use by people less than 2 years old.

How to take sulfazine?

Follow the directions on your prescription label and go through all medication guides or instruction sheets. Follow the medication exactly as prescribed. Take sulfazine after eating. Take the tablet in one swallow and don't crush, chew, or break it. You will require frequent medical tests. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure your kidneys function correctly while taking sulfazine.

Sulfazine may affect the outcomes of some medical tests. Inform any doctor you see that you are taking this medication. Sulfazine can cause your urine or skin to appear yellow-orange in color. Contact your doctor if you also notice eyes that are yellow, urine that is brown, or stomach discomfort. These could be indications of liver issues.

If you're suffering from arthritis, you should not stop taking any other arthritis medications until your doctor has told you to. Sulfazine isn't likely to improve your symptoms immediately, and you may require other medications for a while. Sulfazine is a small component of a full treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, which could include physical therapy and rest. Follow the instructions of your doctor carefully. Keep at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

What happens If I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as quickly as possible; however, do not skip the dose you missed if you are close to the time to take your next dose. Don't take more than two doses at a time.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention immediately or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222. Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, or seizures.

What should be avoided?

Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any restrictions on foods, beverages, or activities.

Interaction with other drugs

Other medications can affect sulfazine, such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medications as well as any medications you begin or stop taking.