5-aminosalicylic acid
5-Aminosalicylic Acid
5-Aminosalicylic acid (pronunciation: 5-uh-mee-noh-suh-lih-sil-ik as-id), also known as 5-ASA or mesalazine, is a type of anti-inflammatory drug used primarily in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Etymology
The term "5-aminosalicylic acid" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of an amino group (NH2) attached to the fifth carbon of a salicylic acid molecule.
Pharmacology
5-Aminosalicylic acid works by reducing inflammation in the bowel. It is thought to block the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, two chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
Usage
5-Aminosalicylic acid is used to treat and prevent relapses of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It is also used in the maintenance of remission in these conditions.
Side Effects
Common side effects of 5-aminosalicylic acid include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause pancreatitis or hepatitis.
Related Terms
- Sulfasalazine: A prodrug that is split into 5-aminosalicylic acid and sulfapyridine in the body.
- Balsalazide: Another prodrug of 5-aminosalicylic acid.
- Olsalazine: A drug that is broken down into two molecules of 5-aminosalicylic acid in the body.
See Also
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