Aminosalicylate

Aminosalicylate (pronunciation: /ˌæmɪnoʊsəˈlɪsɪleɪt/), also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA, is a type of medication primarily used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Etymology

The term "aminosalicylate" is derived from the words "amino", referring to an amino group, and "salicylate", referring to a salicylic acid derivative. The "5" in "5-ASA" refers to the position of the amino group on the salicylic acid molecule.

Usage

Aminosalicylates are anti-inflammatory drugs that work by reducing inflammation in the lining of the intestines. They are often used as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate IBD, and can be used both to treat flare-ups and to maintain remission.

Related Terms

Mesalamine: A type of aminosalicylate medication that is often used in the treatment of IBD.
Sulfasalazine: A medication that is broken down into 5-ASA in the body, and is used in the treatment of IBD and rheumatoid arthritis.
Balsalazide: A prodrug that is converted into 5-ASA in the body, and is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Side Effects

Like all medications, aminosalicylates can cause side effects. These may include nausea, headache, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, they can cause more serious side effects such as pancreatitis or hepatitis.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Aminosalicylate
Wikipedia's article - Aminosalicylate

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Aminosalicylate