Sulfasalazine is indicated in:
Rheumatoid arthritis & Juvenile arthritis: In the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and pediatiric patients with polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have responded inadequately to salicylates or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease: As adjunct in the treatment of ulcerative colitis with the usual supportive and dietary measures. In the treatment of active Crohn's disease, especially in patients with colonic involvement.
Hypersensitivity to Sulfasalazine, its metabolites, sulfonamides or salicylates, patients with intestinal or urinary obstruction and porphyria.
The common adverse reactions are anorexia, headache, nausea, vomiting, gastric distress, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, dizziness, apparently reversible oligospermia etc.
Use in pregnancy: Pregnancy category B. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Use in lactation: Caution should be exercised when sulfasalazine is administered to a nursing mother.