Used primarily in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, it helps reduce inflammation in the intestines and maintain remission. It is also prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, where it alleviates joint pain, swelling, and stiffness by modulating the immune response. The drug works locally in the colon after being broken down by gut bacteria into its active components, allowing targeted action with fewer systemic side effects. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is sometimes used off-label for other autoimmune or chronic inflammatory conditions.