The mechanism of action of mesalamine is not fully understood, but appears to be topical. Mucosal production of arachidonic acid metabolites, both through the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, is increased in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and it is possible that mesalamine diminishes inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase and inhibiting prostaglandin production in the colon. Recent data also suggest that mesalamine can inhibit the activation of NFκB, a nuclear transcription factor that regulates the transcription of many genes for pro-inflammatory proteins.

LIALDA tablets are indicated for the induction of remission in patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. Safety and effectiveness of LIALDA beyond 8 weeks has not been established.

The recommended dosage for the induction of remission in adult patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis is two to four 1.2g tablets to be taken once daily with meal for a total daily dose of 2.4g or 4.8g. Treatment duration in controlled clinical trials was up to 8 weeks.

LIALDA tablets have been evaluated in 655 ulcerative colitis patients in controlled and openlabel trials. See package insert for complete information.

LIALDA is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to salicylates (including mesalamine) or to any of the components of LIALDA.

Patients with pyloric stenosis may have prolonged gastric retention of LIALDA, which could delay mesalamine release in the colon. # See package insert for complete information.