Question about Pentasa

[sidney75]

Hello all,

I am currently on a high dose course of Pentasa for 8 weeks. I am about 4 weeks in, and so far it seems to be working as I have been symptom free for 2 weeks with minimal noticeable side effects. My doctor plans to put me on a maintenance dose after 8 weeks but has not mentioned any blood work to check liver, etc. Should I request liver/kidney blood work or am I being overly cautious?

Thanks for any feedback!

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

Having your bloodwork done regularily wouldn't be a bad idea as a maintenance thing. But, it's not a requirement for Pentasa as if you were on a 6mp (azathioprine) medication. I had mine done last year after being on Pentasa for a few years and my bloods were fine. So, I believe you'd be alright. If you're concerned, I'd check with my doctor though. It never hurts to ask!

 

[DustyKat]

Whilst Pentasa is a pretty offensive drug in the scheme of things and it doesn’t have the same level of potential serious side effects that the immunosuppressive drugs do you should still have routine bloods done.

If you have no underlying kidney or liver issues then I personally would settle on about 3 monthly blood tests.

Dusty. xxx

 

[valleysangel92]

I agree with the others, I've been on pentasa for some time and haven't had any issues from it. I have regular bloods because of my other meds but if I was only taking pentasa then I would be having them every 2-3 months just to keep an eye on my kidneys. So 8 weeks isn't too long to be on without the bloods.