Olsalazine Sodium
Also known as: Dipentum, Rasal
* **Administration:** Give this medication with food to minimize stomach upset. Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day. * **Monitor for Dry Eye:** Watch for thick, yellow/green eye discharge, squinting, or redness. This drug can occasionally decrease tear production (a condition called "dry eye" or KCS). * **Monitor Stool:** Contact your veterinarian if your dog's diarrhea worsens after starting this medication. > **Do not stop abruptly** unless directed by your veterinarian, but seek advice if adverse effects occur.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- For dogs who cannot tolerate sulfasalazine
- Chronic colitis
- Chronic colitis
- Chronic colitis
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS / dry eye) - less frequent than with sulfasalazine
- Diarrhea (paradoxical worsening reported in humans)
- Vomiting (especially with overdose)
- Decreased motor activity (with overdose)
- Elevated ALT or AST
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to olsalazine or salicylates
- > **Important Note:** While the risk of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) is lower than with sulfasalazine, baseline and periodic Schirmer Tear Tests (STT) are still highly recommended. * **Renal Disease:** Use with caution in animals with pre-existing renal disease, as rare nephrotoxicity has been reported in human patients. * **Pregnancy (FDA Category C):** High-dose rat studies showed some fetal abnormalities. Use during pregnancy only when benefits outweigh the risks. * **Lactation:** Oral olsalazine given to lactating rats produced growth retardation in pups. Use with caution in nursing patients. * **Hepatic:** May cause increases in ALT or AST; monitor liver enzymes if used long-term.
Drug interactions
- Warfarin: Olsalazine may increase prothrombin times in patients receiving warfarin.
Frequently asked questions
What is Olsalazine Sodium used for in pets?
* **Administration:** Give this medication with food to minimize stomach upset. Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day. * **Monitor for Dry Eye:** Watch for thick, yellow/green eye discharge, squinting, or redness. This drug can occasionally decrease tear production (a condition called "dry eye" or KCS). * **Monitor Stool:** Contact your veterinarian if your dog's diarrhea worsens after starting this medication. > **Do not stop abruptly** unless directed by your veterinarian, but seek advice if adverse effects occur.
Is Olsalazine Sodium safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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