Sulfasalazine is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat:
It works by calming down the overactive immune system and reducing inflammation, helping to protect the joints from long-term damage.
In arthritis, the body’s immune cells attack its own joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. Sulfasalazine reduces this immune reaction, leading to less pain, less swelling, and better joint protection.
It usually takes 6–12 weeks before improvements are noticed.
Your doctor may give steroids or other medicines to control symptoms during this period until Sulfasalazine starts working.
Sulfasalazine is usually safe, but some people may experience nausea, stomach upset, or mild rash.
Rarely, it can affect blood counts.
That’s why regular blood monitoring is essential.
If you develop fever, mouth ulcers, or severe rash, stop the tablets and contact your doctor immediately.
Regular blood tests will be arranged by your rheumatologist to check your blood counts.
Monitoring is very important — without it, you may develop side effects or your disease may not be controlled properly, leading to joint damage.
Sulfasalazine can be safely combined with:
This combination is often more effective in controlling arthritis.
For more details, see the Australian Rheumatology Association (ARA) patient leaflet on Sulfasalazine:
