Drug Description:
Asacol (mesalamine) is an enteric-coated oral medication indicated to treat colon and rectal mucosa inflammation. It is also used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and relieve its symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomachache.
This delayed-release aminosalicylate has topical anti-inflammatory effects. Although the definite mechanism of action is still unknown, it possibly reduces inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase and inhibiting prostaglandin production in the large intestine.
Directions
Before starting to take this oral tablet, read the medication or prescription guide provided to you. Remember to take the exact dose and frequency as prescribed. Adult patients are usually prescribed Asacol 800 mg thrice a day.
Asacol is taken orally, with or without food. Swallow the whole tablet. Avoid cutting, crushing, or chewing the tablet because the coating is essential for its delayed-release formulation. Drink plenty of water/fluids after that to prevent kidney stone formation.
Take this medication continuously and at the same time of the day, every day, to avoid missing a dose. If you missed a dose of Asacol, take the medication as soon as you can unless it is almost time for the succeeding scheduled dose. If it is nearly time, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Occasionally, you may find parts of the tablet in your stool. If this happens frequently, consult your doctor or healthcare provider as you might not be absorbing enough medication.
Side effects
Some of the common Asacol side effects you may experience are:
-mild nausea
-headache
-stomach cramps/stomachache
-indigestion
-flatulence
-diarrhea
-constipation
-muscle pain
These mild side effects usually go away on their own without requiring medical attention. However, suppose you experience severe adverse reactions like persistent nausea or vomiting, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, bloody urine, and changes in urine output. In that case, you have to seek the attention of your physician immediately.
Precautions
Avoid taking this medication if you have a known allergy to mesalamine, salicylates, aminosalicylates, or any inactive ingredients this oral medication may have. Discontinue taking Asacol if you observe signs of an allergic reaction like skin rash, itchiness, swelling, and breathing difficulty. Seek emergency help immediately.
Before taking Asacol, talk to your doctor about any medical condition you may have or any history of kidney disease, liver disease, pyloric stenosis, or any stomach blockage.
Limit your sun exposure when using this medication as it may make you more sensitive to the sun, more so if you have skin problems like atopic dermatitis or eczema. Apply sunblock lotion and wear protective clothing when going outdoors. Indoor tanning should also be avoided.
Asacol is similar to aspirin. Thus, patients under the age of 18 should not take this medication if they have chickenpox, flu, or any undiagnosed illness, as it may increase the risk of developing Reye’s syndrome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lialda vs Asacol – which is better?
Asacol and Lialda are both used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. However, Lialda is usually taken only once a day, whereas Asacol, twice or thrice.
Could Asacol suppress the immune system?
Asacol is safe and does not suppress the immune system.
Is Asacol safe for pregnant women?
Asacol belongs to Pregnancy Category C, which means that there is still no definite information on whether this medication could cause harm to the fetus or unborn child. Take this medication only if the potential benefits are more significant than the potential risks.
Can I take Asacol if I am breastfeeding?
This oral tablet passes into the breastmilk and may cause harm to a breastfed baby.
How much does Asacol cost?
Asacol price can be seen at the top portion of this page. Feel free to send us a message if you want to know more about Asacol.
