Olsalazine

Olsalazine In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Olsalazine is a dimer of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) that is cleaved by colonic bacteria into free 5-ASA, which has a local anti-inflammatory effect.

Uses of Olsalazine

• Management of colitis, especially in patients sensitive to sulfasalazine.
• Although the incidence of keratoconjunctivitis sicca is much lower than with sulfasalazine, it is still a potential risk, and periodic Schirmer tear tests should be performed.

Dose of Olsalazine in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• All uses: 10–20 mg/kg p.o. q12h.

Cats:

• No information is available.

Side Effects of Olsalazine in Dogs and Cats

• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

Contraindications of Olsalazine in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use in patients sensitive to salicylates.

Some Notes:

• Activity will be potentiated by administration of other NSAIDs.