Olsalazine is an aminosalicylate and a prodrug of [mesalamine] (5-aminosalicylic acid, 5-ASA).[A257063] It was first developed for delivering mesalamine to the colon without the use of [sulfapyridine].[A257078] Olsalazine comprises two mesalamine molecules joined by an azo bridge, which is cleaved in the colon.[A257078] Olsalazine is an anti-inflammatory agent that works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, subsequently reducing the production of pro-inflammatory factors like prostaglandin and leukotriene.[A257063] Olsalazine is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.[L45023,L45151]
Synonyms
Olsalazine sodium
Olsalazine
Brand Names
Dipentum
Indication
In the US, olsalazine is indicated for the maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis in adult patients who are intolerant to [sulfasalazine].[L45023] In Canada, it is used in the treatment of acute ulcerative colitis of mild to moderate severity, with or without the concomitant use of steroids. It is also indicated for the long-term maintenance of patients with ulcerative colitis in remission.[L45151]
Drug Info/Drug Targets: DrugBank 3.0: a comprehensive resource for 'omics' research on drugs. Knox C, Law V, Jewison
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