5-ASA

Medical abbreviation · Drug

5-ASA stands for 5-Aminosalicylic acid (mesalamine), a drug abbreviation.

Anti-inflammatory drug that acts locally on the lining of the colon, the first-line treatment for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. It is given as delayed-release tablets, granules, enemas and suppositories.

Example: Mesalamine (5-ASA) 4.8 g daily plus nightly enema for left-sided UC flare.

Usage notes

Known as mesalazine outside the US. Oral brands such as Lialda, Asacol HD, Apriso and Pentasa use different coatings to release the drug in different parts of the gut. 5-ASA drugs have little role in Crohn's disease. Rare kidney inflammation is the reason for periodic kidney function tests.

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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.