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Brand Name
Azulfidine
Pronunciation
Sul-fa-SA-la-zeen
Common Drug Name
Sulfasalazine
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Sulfasalazine?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking sulfasalazine. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver, blood or kidney diseases, or may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your pet. Also tell your veterinarian if your pet has reactions to sulfa drugs or aspirin.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I should know?
Follow your veterinarian's directions and give the full course of Sulfasalazine as prescribed. Consult your veterinarian if the animal's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Sulfasalazine.
Notify your veterinarian immediately if your pet has eye discharge, squinting, or other changes in the eye.
Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to it, other sulfa medications, or aspirin.
Use caution in pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young). May decrease fertility in male dogs. Do not use in animals with intestinal obstruction or urinary obstruction. Use with caution in animals with anemia, liver disease or kidney disease. Use with caution in cats, because of their sensitivity to salicylates.
This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.
What side effects may be seen when taking Sulfasalazine?
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS, dry eye) may occur with long-term use of Sulfasalazine. Stop giving the medication and consult your veterinarian if your pet experiences discharge from the eye, redness of the eye, squinting, or other signs related to the eye.
Cats may have vomiting or a loss of appetite. Other less common side effects include anemia resulting in pale gums and tiredness; low platelets resulting in bleeding tendencies; fever; kidney damage resulting in increased thirst and urination; and skin rashes and itchiness. Side effects involving the liver also include jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I avoid when giving my pet Sulfasalazine?
Consult your veterinarian before using Sulfasalazine with other medications, including vitamins and supplements, warfarin, salicylates (aspirin), folic acid, and digoxin since interactions may occur.
Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.
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