CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson,
Medication: Sulfasalazine
Medication: Sulfasalazine
Your dog has been prescribed sulfasalazine for the treatment of chronic colitis.
Key points:
• Best given with food.
• Safety is not established in pregnant or lactating bitches.
• This is not a licensed veterinary product. Your veterinarian will explain about off-license use of medications.
• Dosage: two to three times daily – your veterinarian will advise.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Sulfasalazine (sulf-ah-sal-ah-zeen).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK, Europe or the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
- Azulfidine® 500 mg tablets (human drug).
Class of medication
- Sulfonamide antibiotic combined with with salicylate (aspirin).
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my dog been prescribed sulfasalazine?
Your veterinarian has prescribed sulfasalazine for the treatment of chronic colitis.
How is the medication given?
Sulfasalazine is given orally (as tablets or a liquid). It is administered two to three times daily and is best given with food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Sulfasalazine may cause a condition called dry eye. Your veterinarian can advise you further. If your dog shows signs of squinting or excess mucus discharge in the eyes, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Sulfasalazine may occasionally cause vomiting, skin reactions and jaundice. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Sulfasalazine may react with digoxin (heart medication). It may also react with the following medications: glipizide, some diabetic medications, methotrexate, phenylbutazone, phenytoin, salicylates, thiazide diuretics and warfarin.
Sulfasalazine should be used with caution in cats because they do not tolerate aspirin very well.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Your dog will not usually be on this medication for longer than three weeks.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused sulfasalazine safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save sulfasalazine for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Sulfasalazine should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on sulfasalazine?
Your veterinarian may need to monitor your dog’s tear production while on this medication to ensure that dry eye is not developing. Dry eye can be managed if it occurs, but it’s better to spot signs of trouble sooner rather than later.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on sulfasalazine can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinary surgeon.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.