FM1997

Sulphasalazine (Salazopyrin EN)

Dosage:		Start 500mg daily with food
		Increase by 500mg weekly until daily dose of 2g

NB: Several important drug interactions including some antibiotics.
Check BNF before co-prescribing

Investigations before starting treatment performed by rheumatologist

• FBC
• U&E, LFT, Bone Profile

Monitoring of treatment by primary health care team

Every 2 weeks for 3 months, then every 3 months, 6 monthly after the first year.

Investigation	Action required
FBC	STOP if: WBC <4 x 109/L neutrophils <2 x 109/L platelets <150 x 109/L OR if: sequential fall of >10% in 3 counts
	Check B12 and folate if macrocytosis
LFT	STOP if: >twofold rise in AST or ALT

Please note that in addition to absolute values for haematological indices a rapid fall
or consistent downward trend  in any values should prompt caution and extra vigilance.

Side effects

Rash, mouth ulcers	STOP if severe
Nausea	reduce dose - stop if persistent

These guidelines have been with permission from the department of rheumatology, Gwent Rheumatology Service.

Back

Homepage

Top