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Who can and cannot take mesalazine - Brand names: Asacol, Mezavant, Octasa, Pentasa, Salofalk, Zintasa

Who can take mesalazine

Most adults and children aged 5 years old and older over can take mesalazine.

Who may not be able to take or use mesalazine

Although most adults and children aged 5 years old and older over can take mesalazine, it may not be suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell a doctor before taking if you:

  • have ever had an allergic reaction to mesalazine, aspirin, or any other medicines like it, such as methylsalicylate or choline salicylate
  • have ever had an allergic reaction to any other medicine
  • have ever had kidney problems while taking other medicines such as sulfasalazine
  • have ever developed a severe skin rash, skin peeling, blistering or mouth sores after using mesalazine
  • have problems with your kidneys or liver
  • are trying to get pregnant, already pregnant, or breastfeeding

Page last reviewed: 6 March 2025
Next review due: 6 March 2028