Common Questions about Mesalamine (Lialda)

Is mesalamine a steroid?

No, mesalamine is not a steroid. It is an aminosalicylate. Both aminosalicylates and steroids reduce inflammation, but they work differently.

How long does it take for mesalamine to work?

You may notice some improvement in your symptoms after taking mesalamine for a few days. However, it typically takes a few weeks for this drug to have its full effects. It can even take a few months for your symptoms to get better if you have severe ulcerative colitis.

Is mesalamine safe to take long-term?

Mesalamine therapy for ulcerative colitis is usually long-term and generally safe for most people.

Is mesalamine bad for the kidneys?

Mesalamine may cause kidney damage and increase your risk of kidney stones. Your doctor will check your kidney function before prescribing this medication. They will also periodically monitor renal function while you are on this medicine. Keep all your laboratory and medical appointments and stay well hydrated during treatment with mesalamine.

What is better than mesalamine?

Some studies have found that balsalazide, which is a mesalamine prodrug, may be more effective and better tolerated than mesalamine. Your doctor will choose the best ulcerative colitis medicine for you.

What is the price of mesalamine without insurance?

Without insurance, mesalamine can be as high as $1,280.49, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $163.90 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of mesalamine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on mesalamine—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for mesalamine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.