Part Two of Sulfasalazine Information, Focusing on Side Effects, Discontinuation or Withdrawal Effects, and Additional Information

This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.

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What are the possible side effects of sulfasalazine?

  • If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking sulfasalazine and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:
    • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
    • worsening colitis (fever, abdominal pain, cramping, or bloody diarrhea); or
    • sore throat, fever, pale skin, bruising, or yellow skin or eyes (may indicate a blood disorder).
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take sulfasalazine and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
    • headache;
    • a rash, itching, or hives;
    • fever;
    • decreased sperm production (uncommon and usually reversible); or
    • orange-yellow discoloration of the skin or urine (not harmful).
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect sulfasalazine?

  • Sulfasalazine may decrease the absorption of digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps). Your doctor may want to monitor the digoxin levels in your blood if you are taking this medicine.
  • Sulfasalazine may also decrease folate (a natural vitamin) in your body. You may need to take folate supplements or eat folate-rich foods.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with sulfasalazine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has more information about sulfasalazine written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Limitations and the Source of Our Online Medication Information Database

Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.

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Version: 4.02. Revision Date: 2/14/03.

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