Vegaz OD Tablet PR (Mesalazine) | Used for Bowel Inflammation and Ulcerative Colitis Maintenance Therapy
Vegaz OD Tablet PR contains Mesalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug used for the treatment and maintenance of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease with once-daily dosing.
Product Overview
Vegaz OD Tablet PR is a potent aminosalicylate medication containing Mesalazine (also known as Mesalamine). Engineered with prolonged-release (PR) technology, it is specifically designed for the effective management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). By facilitating a targeted release of the active drug in the lower gastrointestinal tract, it serves as a first-line therapy for the induction and maintenance of remission in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s ileocolitis.
Product Composition
- Active Ingredient: Mesalazine (5-Aminosalicylic Acid)
- Formulation Type: Prolonged-Release (PR)
- Dosage Strength: 1.2g (1200 mg)
- Coating: Multi-Matrix System (MMX) or Enteric coating for site-specific delivery
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Drug Category | Anti-inflammatory (5-ASA) |
| Therapeutic Use | Ulcerative Colitis & Crohn's Disease |
| Release Mechanism | Sustained colonic delivery |
| Dosage Frequency | Once-Daily (OD) |
Mechanism of Action
- Prostaglandin Inhibition: Mesalazine works by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzyme, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause gut inflammation.
- Cytokine Modulation: It suppresses the release of inflammatory cytokines, effectively calming the intestinal mucosa.
- Antioxidant Properties: Acts as a scavenger for reactive oxygen species, protecting the bowel wall from oxidative stress and tissue damage.
- Localized Therapy: The PR tablet ensures the drug bypasses the stomach and small intestine to act directly on the colon and terminal ileum.
Key Benefits
- Simplified Compliance: The Once-Daily (OD) regimen reduces the pill burden, making it easier for patients to stick to their long-term therapy.
- Rapid Symptom Relief: Effectively controls rectal bleeding, urgency, and chronic diarrhea associated with active flares.
- Relapse Prevention: Proven to sustain clinical remission, significantly lowering the risk of future IBD flare-ups.
- Targeted Anti-inflammatory Action: Delivers high concentrations of the drug precisely where the inflammation exists, minimizing systemic absorption and side effects.
- Mucosal Healing: Supports the restoration of the healthy lining of the large intestine, improving overall digestive health and quality of life.
Usage
Vegaz OD Tablet PR is a specialized gastrointestinal medication designed for high-efficiency performance. The prolonged-release technology is meticulously engineered to ensure the Mesalazine content is distributed evenly across the colonic mucosa for a full 24-hour period.
Dosage and Administration
For the most effective management of chronic gut inflammation, the following clinical administration steps should be followed.
Once-Daily Regimen: To maintain a steady state of anti-inflammatory action, the tablet should be taken at the same time every day as a single dose.
Whole Tablet Intake: It is imperative to swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this would cause a premature release of the drug, potentially irritating the stomach and reducing colonic efficacy.
Administration with Food: Taking the medication during or immediately after a meal is often recommended to optimize the transit through the digestive tract.
Consistency is Key: Even during periods of clinical remission where no symptoms are present, the medication must be continued as prescribed to prevent a disease relapse.
Hydration Awareness: Patients should maintain high levels of fluid intake to support the kidneys while undergoing long-term 5-ASA therapy.
Missed Dosing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one to avoid doubling the Mesalamine concentration.
Uses
Vegaz OD Tablet PR is utilized as a primary therapeutic agent to manage a variety of inflammatory bowel conditions and ensure long-term digestive stability.
Primary Therapeutic Uses
Treatment of Active Ulcerative Colitis: Specifically indicated to reduce the inflammation and ulceration of the large intestine during mild-to-moderate flares.
Maintenance of Remission: Used as a long-term preventative measure to keep ulcerative colitis symptoms from returning after the initial flare has subsided.
Crohn’s Disease Management: Employed to treat inflammation specifically involving the terminal ileum and the colon in patients with Crohn’s ileocolitis.
Reduction of Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Effectively targets and reduces rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and the frequency of mucus in stool.
Bowel Urgency Control: By soothing the intestinal lining, it helps manage the sudden and frequent urge to pass stools associated with IBD.
Proctitis Relief: Provides targeted anti-inflammatory support for patients suffering from inflammation in the rectum and the end portion of the colon.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Bloating or gas
- Vomiting
Digestive system effects
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Indigestion
- Mild worsening of bowel symptoms at start
Skin reactions
- Rash
- Itching
- Mild skin irritation
- Sensitivity reactions in some cases
General effects
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Joint or muscle pain
Kidney and liver related effects (rare)
| Serious effect | Possible signs |
|---|---|
| Kidney problems | Reduced urine, swelling, tiredness |
| Liver issues | Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine |
| Blood changes | Easy bruising, frequent infections |
Important warning
- Stop use and seek immediate attention if serious symptoms occur
- Monitor for persistent abdominal pain or unusual bleeding
- Regular checkups may help reduce risks during long term treatment
FAQs
Q: What is Vegaz OD Tablet PR used for?
A: Vegaz OD Tablet PR is used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's ileocolitis. It helps reduce inflammation in the intestines, relieving symptoms such as diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain.
Q: How does Vegaz OD Tablet PR work?
A: Mesalazine works by blocking the production of chemical messengers such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes that trigger inflammation, swelling, and irritation in the gut. This reduces ulceration, bleeding, and stomach pain while promoting healing of the intestinal lining.
Q: How should Vegaz OD Tablet PR be taken?
A: Vegaz OD Tablet PR should be taken with food, once daily, as directed by your doctor. The dosage depends on the condition being treated. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole.
Q: What are the common side effects of Vegaz OD Tablet PR?
A: Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, headache, bloating, flatulence, vomiting, dizziness, joint pain, itching, and mild abdominal discomfort. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. Consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.
Q: Who should not take Vegaz OD Tablet PR?
A: Patients with known hypersensitivity to Mesalazine or salicylates should not take this medicine. It should also be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. Always inform your doctor of your complete medical history before starting treatment.
Q: Can Vegaz OD Tablet PR be used during pregnancy?
A: Vegaz OD Tablet PR may be unsafe during pregnancy. Although human studies are limited, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing it.
Q: Is Vegaz OD Tablet PR safe during breastfeeding?
A: Vegaz OD Tablet PR is probably unsafe during breastfeeding as limited data suggests the medicine may pass into breast milk and harm the baby. If you are taking this medicine while breastfeeding, monitor the baby for diarrhoea and consult your doctor immediately.
Q: Can Vegaz OD Tablet PR affect the kidneys?
A: Yes, Vegaz OD Tablet PR should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease as it can rarely affect kidney function. Your doctor may recommend periodic blood and urine tests to monitor kidney health during treatment.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Vegaz OD Tablet PR?
A: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Vegaz OD Tablet PR. Please consult your doctor before consuming alcohol during treatment.
Q: Does Vegaz OD Tablet PR affect my ability to drive?
A: Vegaz OD Tablet PR does not usually affect your ability to drive. However, if you experience dizziness or any other side effects that impair your concentration, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.
Q: Can I stop taking Vegaz OD Tablet PR once my symptoms improve?
A: No, do not stop taking Vegaz OD Tablet PR without consulting your doctor. Even when symptoms improve or disappear, stopping treatment too early can allow inflammation to return and worsen the condition.
Interactions
Other anti inflammatory medicines
- May increase stomach or bowel irritation
- Risk of side effects may increase with combination use
- Careful monitoring may be needed
Kidney affecting medicines
- Combined use may increase kidney stress
- Risk of kidney side effects may be higher
- Kidney function monitoring may be required
Immune system medicines
- May affect response in inflammatory bowel disease
- Increased risk of infections in some cases
- Dose adjustment may be needed
Stomach related medicines
- Some medicines may alter absorption or response
- Effectiveness may vary in long term use
- Monitoring of symptoms is important
Blood related medicines
- May slightly increase risk of bleeding in rare cases
- Watch for unusual bruising or bleeding
- Use with caution under supervision
General advice
- Inform about all ongoing medicines before use
- Avoid starting or stopping medicines without guidance
- Regular monitoring may be needed during combined therapy
| Manufacturer | : | A. Menarini India Pvt Ltdine HCL) |
| Trade Name | : | Apriso |
| Generic Search | : | Mesalazine |
| Strength | : | 1200 mg |
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