Mesalamine by Actavis Pharma, Inc. MESALAMINE suppository

Mesalamine by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Mesalamine by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Actavis Pharma, Inc.. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Mesalamine suppositories are indicated in adults for the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative proctitis.

  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    Dosage

    The recommended dosage of mesalamine suppositories in adults is 1000 mg administered rectally once daily at bedtime for 3 to 6 weeks depending on symptoms and sigmoidoscopic findings. Safety and effectiveness of mesalamine suppositories beyond 6 weeks have not been established.

    Administration Instructions:

    • Evaluate renal function prior to initiation of mesalamine suppository therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
    • Do not cut or break the suppository.
    • Retain the suppository for one to three hours or longer, if possible.
    • Drink an adequate amount of fluids [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
    • If a dose of mesalamine suppository is missed, administer as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for next dose. Do not use two mesalamine suppositories at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
    • Mesalamine suppositories will cause staining of direct contact surfaces, including but not limited to fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, vinyl, and enamel. Keep mesalamine suppositories away from these surfaces to prevent staining.
  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    Mesalamine Suppository: 1000 mg mesalamine in a bullet shaped, light tan to grey suppository.

  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    Mesalamine is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to salicylates or aminosalicylates or to any ingredients in the suppository vehicle [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Adverse Reactions (6.2), and Description (11)].

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Renal Impairment

    Renal impairment, including minimal change disease, acute and chronic interstitial nephritis, and renal failure, has been reported in patients given products such as mesalamine suppositories that contain mesalamine or are converted to mesalamine. In animal studies, the kidney was the principal organ of mesalamine toxicity [see Adverse Reactions (6.2), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)].

    Evaluate renal function prior to initiation of mesalamine and periodically while on therapy.

    Evaluate the risks and benefits of using mesalamine in patients with known renal impairment or a history of renal disease or taking concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. Discontinue mesalamine suppositories if renal function deteriorates while on therapy. [see Drug Interactions (7.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

    5.2 Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome

    Mesalamine has been associated with an acute intolerance syndrome that may be difficult to distinguish from an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Although the exact frequency of occurrence has not been determined, it has occurred in 3% of patients in controlled clinical trials of mesalamine or sulfasalazine. Symptoms include cramping, acute abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea, and sometimes fever, headache, malaise, pruritus, conjunctivitis, and rash. Monitor patients for worsening of these symptoms while on treatment. If acute intolerance syndrome is suspected, promptly discontinue treatment with mesalamine.

    5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions

    Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported in patients taking sulfasalazine. Some patients may have a similar reaction to mesalamine suppositories or to other compounds that contain or are converted to mesalamine.

    As with sulfasalazine, mesalamine-induced hypersensitivity reactions may present as internal organ involvement, including myocarditis, pericarditis, nephritis, hepatitis, pneumonitis and hematologic abnormalities. Evaluate patients immediately if signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction are present. Discontinue mesalamine suppositories if an alternative etiology for the signs and symptoms cannot be established.

    5.4 Hepatic Failure

    There have been reports of hepatic failure in patients with pre-existing liver disease who have been administered other products containing mesalamine. Evaluate the risks and benefits of using mesalamine in patients with known liver impairment.

    5.5 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions

    Severe cutaneous adverse reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) have been reported in association with the use of mesalamine [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Discontinue mesalamine suppositories at the first signs or symptoms of severe cutaneous adverse reactions or other signs of hypersensitivity and consider further evaluation.


    5.6 Photosensitivity

    In patients treated with mesalamine or sulfasalazine who have pre-existing skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and atopic eczema have reported more severe photosensitivity reactions. Advise patients to avoid sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen when outdoors.

    5.7 Nephrolithiasis

    Cases of nephrolithiasis have been reported with the use of mesalamine, including stones of 100% mesalamine content. Mesalamine-­containing stones are radiotransparent and undetectable by standard radiography or computed tomography (CT). Ensure adequate hydration during treatment with mesalamine suppositories.

    5.8 Interaction with Laboratory Test for Urinary Normetanephrine

    Use of mesalamine may lead to spuriously elevated test results when measuring urinary normetanephrine by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, because of the similarity in the chromatograms of normetanephrine and mesalamine's main metabolite, N-acetylaminosalicylic acid. Consider an alternative, selective assay for normetanephrine.

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    The following serious or clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling:

    • Renal Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
    • Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
    • Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
    • Hepatic Failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
    • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
    • Photosensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]
    • Nephrolithiasis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]

    6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

    Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

    The most common adverse reactions in adult patients with mildly to moderately active ulcerative proctitis in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are summarized in the Table 1 below.

    Table 1: Adverse Reactions Occurring in More Than 1% of Mesalamine Suppository Treated Patients (Comparison to Placebo)

    Symptom

    Mesalamine

    (n = 177)

    Placebo

    (n = 84)

    N

    %

    N

    %

    Dizziness

    5

    3

    2

    2.4

    Rectal Pain

    3

    1.8

    0

    0

    Fever

    2

    1.2

    0

    0

    Rash

    2

    1.2

    0

    0

    Acne

    2

    1.2

    0

    0

    Colitis

    2

    1.2

    0

    0

    In a multicenter, open-label, randomized, parallel group study in 99 patients comparing the mesalamine 1000 mg suppository administered nightly to that of the mesalamine 500 mg suppository twice daily. The most common adverse reactions in both groups were headache (14%), flatulence (5%), abdominal pain (5%), diarrhea (3%), and nausea (3%). Three (3) patients discontinued medication because of an adverse reaction; one of these adverse reactions (headache) was deemed possibly related to study medication. The recommended dosage of mesalamine suppository is 1000 mg administered rectally once daily at bedtime [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of mesalamine suppositories or other mesalamine-containing products. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

    • Body as a Whole: drug fever, fatigue, lupus-like syndrome, medication residue
    • Cardiac Disorders: myocarditis, pericarditis, pericardial effusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
    • Endocrine: Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
    • Eye disorders: eye swelling
    • Gastrointestinal Disorders: abdominal cramps, abdominal distension, anal pruritus, anorectal discomfort, constipation, feces discolored, flatulence, frequent bowel movements, gastrointestinal bleeding, mucus stools, nausea, painful defecation, pancreatitis, proctalgia, rectal discharge, rectal tenesmus, stomach discomfort, vomiting
    • Hepatic Disorders: cholestatic jaundice, hepatitis, jaundice, Kawasaki-like syndrome including changes in liver enzymes, liver necrosis, liver failure
    • Hematologic Disorders: agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia
    • Neurological/Psychiatric Disorders: Guillain-Barre syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, transverse myelitis, intracranial hypertension
    • Renal Disorders: interstitial nephritis, renal failure, minimal change disease, nephrolithiasis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.7)]
    • Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: hypersensitivity pneumonitis (including allergic alveolitis, eosinophilic pneumonitis, interstitial pneumonitis), pleuritis/pleurisy 
      • Urine discoloration occurring ex-vivo caused by contact of mesalamine, including inactive metabolite, with surfaces or water treated with hypochlorite containing bleach
    • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorder: alopecia, erythema, erythema nodosum, pruritus, psoriasis, pyoderma gangrenosum, urticaria, SJS/TEN, DRESS and AGEP [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
    • Urogenital: reversible oligospermia
  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    7.1 Nephrotoxic Agents, Including Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

    The concurrent use of mesalamine with known nephrotoxic agents, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity. Monitor patients taking nephrotoxic drugs for changes in renal function and mesalamine-related adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

    7.2 Azathioprine or 6-Mercaptopurine

    The concurrent use of mesalamine with azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine and/or other drugs known to cause myelotoxicity may increase the risk for blood disorders, bone marrow failure, and associated complications. If concomitant use of mesalamine and azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine cannot be avoided, monitor blood tests, including complete blood cell counts and platelet counts.

    7.3 Interference With Urinary Normetanephrine Measurements

    Use of mesalamine may lead to spuriously elevated test results when measuring urinary normetanephrine by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, because of the similarity in the chromatograms of normetanephrine and mesalamine's main metabolite, N-acetylaminosalicylic acid. Consider an alternative, selective assay for normetanephrine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    8.1 Pregnancy

    Risk Summary

    Limited published data on mesalamine use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform a drug-associated risk. No evidence of teratogenicity was observed in rats or rabbits when treated during gestation with orally administered mesalamine at doses greater than the recommended human intra-rectal dose (see Data).

    The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

    Data

    Animal Data

    Reproduction studies have been performed in rats at oral doses up to 320 mg/kg/day (about 1.7 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and in rabbits at oral doses up to 495 mg/kg/day (about 5.4 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) following administration during the period of organogenesis, and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to mesalamine.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary

    Mesalamine and its N-acetyl metabolite are present in human milk in undetectable to small amounts (see Data). There are limited reports of diarrhea in breastfed infants. There is no information on the effects of the drug on milk production. The lack of clinical data during lactation precludes a clear determination of the risk of mesalamine to an infant during lactation; therefore, the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for mesalamine and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from mesalamine or from the underlying maternal conditions.

    Clinical Considerations

    Monitor breastfed infants for diarrhea.

    Data

    In published lactation studies, maternal mesalamine doses from various oral and rectal formulations and products ranged from 500 mg to 3 g daily. The concentration of mesalamine in milk ranged from non-detectable to 0.11 mg/L. The concentration of the N-acetyl-5-aminosalicylic acid metabolite ranged from 5 to 18.1 mg/L. Based on these concentrations, estimated infant daily dosages for an exclusively breastfed infant are 0 to 0.017 mg/kg/day of mesalamine and 0.75 to 2.72 mg/kg/day of N-acetyl-5-aminosalicylic acid.

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    The safety and effectiveness of mesalamine in pediatric patients for the treatment of mildly to moderately active ulcerative proctitis have not been established. Mesalamine suppositories were evaluated for the treatment of ulcerative proctitis in a 6-week, open-label, single-arm study in 49 patients 5 to 17 years of age, which only included 14 patients with histologically-confirmed cases of ulcerative proctitis. However, efficacy was not demonstrated. Adverse reactions seen in pediatric patients in this trial (abdominal pain, headache, pyrexia, pharyngolaryngeal pain, diarrhea and vomiting) were similar to those seen in adult patients.

    8.5 Geriatric Use

    Clinical trials of mesalamine did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 years and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients. Reports from uncontrolled clinical studies and postmarketing reporting systems suggested a higher incidence of blood dyscrasias (i.e., agranulocytosis, neutropenia and pancytopenia) in patients receiving mesalamine-containing products such as mesalamine suppositories who were 65 years or older compared to younger patients. Monitor complete blood cell counts and platelet counts in elderly patients during treatment with mesalamine suppositories. In general, consider the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concurrent disease or other drug therapy in elderly patients when prescribing mesalamine suppositories [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

    8.6 Renal Impairment

    Mesalamine is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Evaluate renal function in all patients prior to initiation and periodically while on mesalamine suppository therapy. Monitor patients with known renal impairment or history of renal disease or taking nephrotoxic drugs for decreased renal function and mesalamine-related adverse reactions. Discontinue mesalamine suppositories if renal function deteriorates while on therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Adverse Reactions (6.2), Drug Interactions (7.1)].

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    Mesalamine absorption from the colon is limited; however, mesalamine suppository is an aminosalicylate, and symptoms of salicylate toxicity include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, tachypnea, hyperpnea, tinnitus, and neurologic symptoms (headache, dizziness, confusion, seizures). Severe salicylate intoxication may lead to electrolyte and blood pH imbalance and potentially to other organ (e.g., renal and liver) involvement. There is no specific antidote for mesalamine overdose. Correct fluid and electrolyte imbalance by the administration of appropriate intravenous therapy and maintain adequate renal function.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    The active ingredient in mesalamine 1000 mg suppositories for rectal use is mesalamine USP, also known as mesalazine or 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Chemically, mesalamine, USP is 5-amino-2-hydroxybenzoic acid, and is classified as an aminosalicylate. Each mesalamine rectal suppository contains 1000 mg of mesalamine, USP in a base of hard fat base.

    The molecular formula is C7H7NO3, representing a molecular weight of 153.14. The structural formula is:

    1
  • 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    12.1 Mechanism of Action

    The mechanism of action of mesalamine is not fully understood, but appears to be a topical anti-inflammatory effect on colonic epithelial cells. Mucosal production of arachidonic acid metabolites, both through the cyclooxygenase pathways, i.e., prostanoids, and through the lipoxygenase pathways, i.e., leukotrienes and hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids, is increased in patients with ulcerative colitis, and it is possible that mesalamine diminishes inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase and inhibiting prostaglandin production in the colon.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    Absorption

    Mesalamine (5-ASA) administered as a rectal suppository is variably absorbed. In patients with ulcerative colitis treated with mesalamine 500 mg rectal suppositories, administered once every eight hours for six days, the mean mesalamine peak plasma concentration (Cmax) was 353 ng/mL (CV=55%) following the initial dose and 361 ng/mL (CV=67%) at steady state. The mean minimum steady state plasma concentration (Cmin) was 89 ng/mL (CV=89%). Absorbed mesalamine does not accumulate in the plasma.

    Distribution

    Mesalamine administered as a rectal suppository distributes in rectal tissue to some extent.

    Elimination

    In patients with ulcerative proctitis treated with mesalamine 500 mg as a rectal suppository every 8 hours for 6 days, the mean elimination half-life was 5 hours (CV=73%) for 5-ASA and 5 hours (CV=63%) for N-acetyl-5-ASA, the active metabolite, following the initial dose. At steady state, the mean elimination half-life was 7 hours for both 5-ASA and N-acetyl-5-ASA (CV=102% for 5-ASA and 82% for N-acetyl-5-ASA).

    Metabolism

    The absorbed mesalamine is extensively metabolized, mainly to N-acetyl-5-ASA in the liver and in the gut mucosal wall. In patients with ulcerative colitis treated with one mesalamine 500 mg rectal suppository every eight hours for six days, the peak concentration (Cmax) of N-acetyl-5-ASA ranged from
    467 ng/mL to 1399 ng/mL following the initial dose and from 193 ng/mL to 1304 ng/mL at steady state.

    Excretion

    Mesalamine is eliminated from plasma mainly by urinary excretion, predominantly as N-acetyl-5-ASA. In patients with ulcerative proctitis treated with mesalamine 500 mg as a rectal suppository every 8 hours for 6 days, 12% or less of the dose was eliminated in urine as unchanged 5-ASA and 8% to 77% was eliminated as N-acetyl-5-ASA following the initial dose. At steady state, 11% or less of the dose was eliminated in the urine as unchanged 5-ASA and 3% to 35% was eliminated as N-acetyl-5-ASA.

  • 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Mesalamine caused no increase in the incidence of neoplastic lesions over controls in a two-year study of Wistar rats fed up to 320 mg/kg/day of mesalamine admixed with diet (about 1.7 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area).

    Mesalamine was not mutagenic in the Ames test, the mouse lymphoma cell (TK+/-) forward mutation test, or the mouse micronucleus test.

    No effects on fertility or reproductive performance of the male and female rats were observed at oral mesalamine doses up to 320 mg/kg/day (about 1.7 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area).

    13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology

    Toxicology studies of mesalamine were conducted in rats, mice, rabbits and dogs, and the kidney was the main target organ of toxicity. In rats, adverse renal effects were observed at a single oral dose of 600 mg/kg (about 3.2 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and at intravenous doses of >214 mg/kg (about 1.2 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area). In a 13-week oral gavage toxicity study in rats, papillary necrosis and/or multifocal tubular injury were observed in males receiving 160 mg/kg (about 0.86 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and in both males and females at 640 mg/kg (about 3.5 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area). In a combined 52-week toxicity and 127-week carcinogenicity study in rats, degeneration of the kidneys and hyalinization of basement membranes and Bowman’s capsule were observed at oral doses of 100 mg/kg/day (about 0.54 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and above. In a 14-day rectal toxicity study of mesalamine suppositories in rabbits, intra-rectal doses up to 800 mg/kg (about 8.6 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) was not associated with any adverse effects. In a six-month oral toxicity study in dogs, doses of 80 mg/kg (about 1.4 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and higher caused renal pathology similar to that described for the rat. In a rectal toxicity study of mesalamine suppositories in dogs, a dose of 166.6 mg/kg (about 3 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) produced chronic nephritis and pyelitis. In the 12-month eye toxicity study in dogs, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) occurred at oral doses of 40 mg/kg (about 0.72 times the recommended human intra-rectal dose of mesalamine, based on body surface area) and above.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    Two double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials of mesalamine suppositories were conducted in North America in adult patients with mildly to moderately active ulcerative proctitis. The regimen in Study 1 was a 500 mg mesalamine suppository administered rectally three times daily and in Study 2 was a 500 mg mesalamine suppository administered rectally twice daily. In both trials, patients had an average extent of proctitis (upper disease boundary) of approximately 10 cm and approximately 80% of patients had multiple prior episodes of proctitis. A total of 173 patients were evaluated (Study 1, N=79; Study 2, N=94), of which 89 patients received mesalamine, and 84 patients received placebo. The mean age of patients was 39 years (range 17 to 73 years), 60% were female, and 97% were white.

    The primary measures of efficacy were clinical disease activity index (DAI) and histologic evaluations in both trials. The DAI is a composite index reflecting rectal bleeding, stool frequency, mucosal appearance at endoscopy, and a physician’s global assessment of disease. Patients were evaluated clinically and sigmoidoscopically after 3 and 6 weeks of treatment.

    Compared to placebo, mesalamine suppositories were statistically (p<0.01) superior to placebo in both trials with respect to improvement in stool frequency, rectal bleeding, mucosal appearance, disease severity, and overall disease activity after 3 and 6 weeks of treatment. The effectiveness of mesalamine suppositories was statistically significant irrespective of sex, extent of proctitis, duration of current episode, or duration of disease.

    An additional multicenter, open-label, randomized, parallel group study in 99 patients diagnosed with mildly to moderately ulcerative proctitis compared 1000 mg mesalamine administered rectally once daily at bedtime (N=35) to 500 mg mesalamine suppository administered rectally twice daily, in the morning and at bedtime (N=46), for 6 weeks.

    The primary measures of efficacy included the clinical disease activity index (DAI) and histologic evaluations. Patients were evaluated clinically and sigmoidoscopically at 3 and 6 weeks of treatment.

    The efficacy at 6 weeks was not different between the treatment groups. Both were effective in the treatment of ulcerative proctitis and resulted in a significant decrease at 6 weeks in DAI: in the mesalamine 500 mg twice daily group, the mean DAI value decreased from 6.6 to 1.6, and in the 1000 mg at bedtime group, the mean DAI value decreased from 6.2 to 1.3, which represents a decrease of greater than 75% in both groups. After 6 weeks of treatment, a DAI score of less than 3 was achieved in 78% of patients in the mesalamine 500 mg twice daily group and 86% of patients in the mesalamine 1000 mg once daily group. The recommended dosage of mesalamine is 1000 mg administered rectally once daily at bedtime [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    Mesalamine suppositories, 1000 mg for rectal administration are available as bullet shaped, light tan to grey suppositories containing 1000 mg mesalamine, USP supplied in boxes of 30 individually plastic wrapped suppositories (NDC: 0472-1915-30).

    Store below 25°C (77°F), may be refrigerated. Keep away from direct heat, light or humidity.

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Advise patients to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).

    Administration [see Dosage and Administration (2)]

    Advise patients:

    • Do not cut or break the suppository.
    • Retain the suppository for one to three hours or longer, if possible.
    • Drink an adequate amount of fluids.
    • If a dose of mesalamine suppository is missed, administer as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for next dose. Do not use two mesalamine suppositories at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
    • Urine may become discolored reddish-brown while taking mesalamine suppository when it comes in contact with surfaces or water treated with hypochlorite-containing bleach. If discolored urine is observed, advise patients to observe their urine flow. Report to the healthcare provider only if urine is discolored on leaving the body, before contact with any surface or water (e.g., in the toilet).
    • Mesalamine suppositories will cause staining of direct contact surfaces, including but not limited to fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, vinyl, and enamel. Keep mesalamine suppositories away from these surfaces to prevent staining.

    Renal Impairment

    • Inform patients that mesalamine suppositories may decrease their renal function, especially if they have known renal impairment or are taking nephrotoxic drugs, including NSAIDs, and periodic monitoring of renal function will be performed while they are on therapy. Advise patients to complete all blood tests ordered by their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Drug Interactions (7.1)].

    Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome and Other Hypersensitivity Reactions

    • Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions. Instruct patients to stop taking mesalamine and report to their healthcare provider if they experience new or worsening symptoms Acute Intolerance Syndrome (cramping, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, headache, malaise, conjunctivitis and rash) or other symptoms suggestive of mesalamine-induced hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3)].

    Hepatic Failure

    • Inform patients with known liver disease of the signs and symptoms of worsening liver function and advise them to report to their healthcare provider if they experience such signs or symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

    Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions

    • Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Instruct patients to stop taking mesalamine suppositories and report to their healthcare provider at first appearance of a severe cutaneous adverse reaction or any other sign of hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

    Photosensitivity

    • Advise patients with pre-existing skin conditions to avoid sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen when outdoors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

    Nephrolithiasis

    • Instruct patients to drink an adequate amount of fluids during treatment in order to minimize the risk of kidney stone formation and to contact their healthcare provider if they experience signs or symptoms of a kidney stone (e.g., severe side or back pain, blood in the urine) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

    Blood Disorders

    • Inform elderly patients and those taking azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine of the risk for blood disorders and the need for periodic monitoring of complete blood cell counts and platelet counts while on therapy. Advise patients to complete all blood tests ordered by their healthcare provider [see Drug Interactions (7.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

    Manufactured For:
    Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.
    North Wales, PA 19454

    Rev. C 12/2023

  • PATIENT PACKAGE INSERT

    PATIENT INFORMATION

    Mesalamine (me sal' a meen) Suppositories
    for rectal use
    What are mesalamine suppositories?

    Mesalamine suppositories are a prescription medicine used to treat adults with active ulcerative proctitis (ulcerative rectal colitis).

    It is not known if mesalamine suppositories are safe and effective in children.

    Do not use mesalamine suppositories if you are:

    • allergic to medicines that contain salicylates, including aspirin.
    • allergic to mesalamine or any of the ingredients in mesalamine suppositories. See the end of this Patient Information leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in mesalamine suppositories.
    Ask your doctor if you are not sure if your medicine is listed above.
     Before using mesalamine suppositories, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, including if you:
    • have a history of allergic reaction to the medicine sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®).
    • have kidney problems.
    • have ever had inflammation of the sac around your heart (pericarditis).
    • have liver problems.
    • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if mesalamine suppositories can harm your unborn baby.
    • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Mesalamine can pass into your breast milk. Talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby if you use mesalamine suppositories.

    Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.

    Using mesalamine suppositories with certain other medicines may affect each other. Using mesalamine suppositories with other medicines can cause serious side effects.

    Especially tell your doctor if you take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), or medicines that contain azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine. Taking mesalamine with NSAIDS may cause kidney problems. Taking mesalamine with azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine may cause blood problems. Ask your doctor if you are not sure if you are taking one of these medicines.
    Your doctor may do certain tests during treatment with mesalamine suppositories.
    Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

    How should I take mesalamine suppositories?

    • Use mesalamine suppositories exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will tell you how long to continue using mesalamine suppositories.
    • Mesalamine suppositories come as suppositories that you insert into your rectum.
    • Do not cut or break the suppository.
    • Use mesalamine suppositories 1 time each day at bedtime, for 3 to 6 weeks. It is not known if mesalamine suppositories are safe and effective for use for longer than 6 weeks.
    • After you insert mesalamine suppository in your rectum, try to keep (retain) the suppository in your rectum for 1 to 3 hours or longer if possible.
    • It is important for you to stay well hydrated during treatment with mesalamine suppositories. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking mesalamine suppositories.
    • If you miss a dose of mesalamine suppository, insert it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Insert the next dose at your regular time. Do not insert 2 doses at the same time.
    • Mesalamine suppositories can stain surfaces including clothing and other fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, vinyl and enamel. Keep mesalamine suppositories away from these surfaces to prevent staining.

    What are the possible side effects of mesalamine suppositories? 

    Mesalamine suppositories may cause serious side effects, including:

    • kidney problems. Your doctor will do certain tests before you start using mesalamine suppositories and during your treatment with mesalamine suppositories.
    • acute intolerance syndrome and other allergic reactions. Some people who use mesalamine suppositories can have allergic type reactions, including Acute Intolerance Syndrome. Other allergic reactions can cause heart problems including an inflammation of the sac around the heart (pericarditis), blood problems, and problems with other organs in the body including the kidneys, liver and lungs. These problems usually happen in people who have had an allergic reaction to medicines containing sulfasalazine. Stop using mesalamine suppositories and tell your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms:
    •  cramps
    • fever 
    •  stomach (abdominal) pain
    • headache
    • bloody diarrhea 
    •  rash
    •  chest pain
    •  shortness of breath
    • decrease in the amount of urine
    •  fatigue
    • eye inflammation
    		 
    • liver problems. This can happen in people who have a history of liver problems and have taken other medicines that contain mesalamine. Tell your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms while using mesalamine suppositories:
    •  yellowing of your eyes
    •  flu-like symptoms
    •  itchy skin
    •  nausea or vomiting
    •  feeling very tired
    		 
    • serious skin reactions. Some people who use mesalamine suppositories can have severe skin reactions. 
      Stop using mesalamine suppositories and tell your doctor right away if you develop any of the following signs or symptoms of a severe skin reaction, including:
    •  blisters or peeling of your skin
    •  high fever or flu-like symptoms
    •  mouth sores
    •  enlarged lymph nodes
    •  blisters on your lips, or around your mouth or eyes
    •  skin rash
    • sun sensitivity. Mesalamine suppositories can make your skin sensitive to the sun if you have skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and atopic eczema. Try to limit your time in the sun. You should use sunscreen and wear a hat and clothes that cover your skin if you have to be in the sunlight.
    • kidney stones. Drink plenty of fluids when using mesalamine suppositories to decrease your chance of getting kidney stones. Call your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms:
    •  severe pain in your side
    •  blood in your urine
    •  severe pain in your back
    		 
     The most common side effects of mesalamine suppositories include:
    •  dizziness
    •  rectal pain
    •  acne
    •  fever
    •  inflammation of the large intestine (colitis)
    •  rash

    These are not all of the possible side effects of mesalamine suppositories.

    Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

    How should I store mesalamine suppositories?

    • Store mesalamine suppositories at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
    • Mesalamine suppositories may be refrigerated.
    • Keep mesalamine suppositories away from direct heat, light, or humidity.

    Keep mesalamine suppositories and all medicines out of the reach of children.

    General information about the safe and effective use of mesalamine suppositories.
    Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use mesalamine suppositories for a condition for which they were not prescribed. Do not give mesalamine suppositories to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.

    Urine may become discolored reddish-brown while taking mesalamine suppository when it comes in contact with surfaces or water treated with hypochlorite-containing bleach.

    You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about mesalamine suppositories that is written for health professionals.

    What are the ingredients in mesalamine suppositories?

    Active ingredients: mesalamine

    Inactive ingredients: hard fat base

    Brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners.

    Manufactured For: Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., North Wales, PA 19454

    For more information call Teva at 1-888-838-2872.

    This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.                                                                                                         Rev. C 12/2023


  • PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

    NDC: 0472-1915-30

    Mesalamine Suppositories, for rectal use

    1000 mg

    For Rectal Use Only

    Rx only

    30 Rectal Suppositories

    1
  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    MESALAMINE 
    mesalamine suppository
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 0472-1915
    Route of AdministrationRECTAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    MESALAMINE (UNII: 4Q81I59GXC) (MESALAMINE - UNII:4Q81I59GXC) MESALAMINE1000 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    FAT, HARD (UNII: 8334LX7S21)  
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 0472-1915-3030 in 1 BOX04/23/2021
    1NDC: 0472-1915-011 in 1 POUCH; Type 0: Not a Combination Product
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA20565404/23/2021
    Labeler - Actavis Pharma, Inc. (119723554)
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