Pentasa

Hi . Sometimes it seems there can be that one tablet that just doesn't swallow right. Personally, for some reason my vitamin C tablet sticks in my throat (I recognize the C is much different than a necessary medication, but it is the one pill that causes me this problem). Other pills may be bigger or differently shaped, but it is this one that is a problem. I know that Pentasa has an extended release coating, so it is not meant to be dissolved before swallowing (see: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-pentasa). It is also noted that it comes in a 250mg tablet as well as the 500. I wonder if your doctor could substitute the smaller pill and take two (I don't know if the size of the pill changes the release)? Hopefully others will chime in with their thoughts. Best, Richard (Team Member)

Have you considered asking your physician about prescribing another form instead of a pill? For example, the active ingredient in Pentasa is mesalamine. I take mesalamine in suppository form. Its name is Canasa. I wrote an article about my experience with it in 2022. Here's the link if you'd like to read it:https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/canasa-ulcerative-colitis

Or, if you prefer the enema form of mesalamine, then you could check with your doctor about prescribing you Rowasa. Personally, I'm not a fan of enemas. They don't travel well. The suppository form of Canasa is discreet and easy to use. When I'm in a flare, I take a suppository right before going to bed. During the night, it works its magic on my colon.

I started with Pentasa, but like you, I struggled to swallow it. Plus, if I remember correctly, I had to take the medicine four times a day. That, too, became cumbersome to remember. Did I take dose #3? Or did I forget? So, I prefer the suppository form that only needs to be taken once at night. I hope this information helps. If you read my article, you'll see what I like and dislike about Canasa. Let me know how it goes for you. Sincerely--Traci, UC-IBD Team Member

Thank you both! !

Richard: this particular one from ferring dissolves partially, the granules (which i think is the mesalamine) does not dissolve, which is why it sometimes chokes when i am trying to swallow drinking water. i tried dissolving and having it but the granules dont dissolve. I have now asked my ibd nurse.

Traci— thanks so much! I read the article. I have found suppository difficult but I might give a try, thank you.