Before starting Asacol, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take. Asacol may interact with certain medications, including:
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Immunosuppressant medications
These interactions may increase the risk of side effects or affect how well your medications work. Your healthcare provider can review your medications and determine whether any adjustments are needed.
Although uncommon, serious allergic reactions can occur while taking Asacol. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as:
- Hives
- Rash
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Do not take Asacol if you are allergic to mesalamine or any of the ingredients in the medication.
If you have skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema, Asacol may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. To help prevent sunburn and skin reactions:
- Limit exposure to direct sunlight.
- Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
- Wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses when outdoors.
- Use sunscreen as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe sunburn, skin redness, blistering, or other unusual skin reactions.
Asacol may affect kidney function and, in some cases, may worsen existing kidney problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of kidney disease before starting treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend periodic kidney function tests while you are taking Asacol.
Asacol may also affect liver function. If you have liver disease or a history of liver problems, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Regular blood tests may be recommended to monitor your liver health during therapy.
In some people, Asacol may affect blood cell counts or increase the risk of bleeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of blood disorders or if you are taking medications that affect blood clotting, such as blood thinners.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking Asacol. The medication should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed and when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
It is not known whether Asacol passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of treatment.
Regular follow-up appointments and laboratory monitoring may be recommended during treatment to help ensure that Asacol remains safe and effective for your condition.
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