Inflammation of the rectum is an uncomfortable condition for people. This condition, called ulcerative proctitis, is the swelling or inflammation of the large intestine and anus. When people are seeking relief from the swelling of the anus, doctors often recommend Canasa Suppositories.
The generic name for Canasa is mesalamine suppositories and consists of 5-amino salicylic acid. Suppositories metabolized by the body, will effectively block chemicals produced by the body that reduces the inflammation of the rectum. This drug will not cure ulcerative colitis, but will reduce the inflammation. These suppositories are often prescribed for people with Crohn’s disease.
Two dosages are prescribed, five hundred and a thousand milligrams. The smaller dosage Canasa suppositories are used twice or three times daily. The larger dose is a once a day insertion, at bedtime. Usage of Canasa is normally three to six weeks duration. During the time used, the effectiveness of the suppositories must be monitored and adjusted if results are not satisfactory. Results do vary with people, but most notice relief in a three to twenty-one day range.
An important handling instruction is a minimal amount of handling because these suppositories are designed to melt at body temperature. Over handling will cause the suppositories to become too warm for proper insertion. The recommended insertion technique is to carefully and slowly insert into the rectum, using lubricant when required. Also for maximum effect, the insertion period should be one to three hours.
Mesalamine is the major ingredient in Canasa suppositories. People who are allergic to mesalamine must not take Casana suppositories. Casana suppositories also includes salicylates and vegetable oil, which may also have allergic reactions. Pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding should not take this medication. Children or anyone under the age of eighteen must not use Canasa suppositories.
Before using Canasa suppositories, a doctor must be informed about all medicines and herbal supplements being used. Some medicines react adversely with Canasa suppositories and a doctor must determine whether these suppositories are safe to use in combination. Some herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba will cause bleeding. People should never assume natural supplements will adversely react with this drug or any drugs.
Monitoring for known side effects is necessary and if any of the following conditions appear, a doctor should be contacted immediately. Allergic reactions such as fever, cramping, severe stomach pain, severe headache, and bloody diarrhea require immediate notification of a doctor. Other reactions may include constipation, chills, acne, body aches, inflammation of joints, menstrual issues, sweating, hemorrhoids, insomnia and others that a physician can discuss.
The use of Canasa suppositories does come with additional special warnings. Casana suppositories can cause people who suffer from colitis to have an attack. In older adults, the mesalamine affects kidney function and will weaken kidneys; while on Casana suppositories, kidney function must be monitored. Pancreatic inflammation has been reported in people using Canasa suppositories.
This list of concerns is not complete. A physician should advise on additional benefits and risks of using Canasa suppositories. Additional information is available through health care providers.
