Name: Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
Class: Sulfonamide
Mech.: Comp. inhib. of PABA incorp. into dihydropteric acid ® inhib. of folic acid.
Absorption: Poorly absorbed in GI tract.
Distribution: GI tract
Metab.: Hydrolized to active form by intest. bacteria.
Excretion, t½: feces
Toxicity/S.E.s: Interferes w/normal flora ® ¯ vit. K synth.
Utility: Active in bowel lumen. Used prior to surgery to reduce microbe population. Treat inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis
Special Features: Broken down in intestines to liberate 5-aminosalicylate (anti-inflammatory).