Mesalamine Also indexed as: Asacol, Mesalazine, Pentasa, Rowasa
Mesalamine is used to treat mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis and to prevent recurrence.
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
 May Be Beneficial: Supportive interaction—Taking these supplements may support or otherwise help your medication work better. | Psyllium |
| Depletion or interference | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
| Adverse interaction | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Psyllium (Plantago ovata)
Taking 20 grams of psyllium seeds together with mesalamine for 12 months was more effective at maintaining remission of ulcerative colitis than taking either the drug or herb alone.1 People taking mesalamine should consult with their healthcare practitioner to determine whether they should add psyllium seeds to their treat regimen.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Fernandez-Banares F, Hinojosa J, Sanchez-Lombrana JL, et al. Randomized clinical trial of Plantago ovata seeds (dietary fiber) as compared with mesalamine in maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis. Spanish Group for the Study of Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis (GETECCU). Am J Gastroenterol 1999;94:427–33.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2009.