Description
Indications
Asacol HD (Mesalamine) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of Ulcerative colitis, Crohnâs disease, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease in adults. It is available as delayed-release tablets and contains the active drug mesalamine, also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid. It belongs to a drug class known as 5-aminosalicylic acid and works by reducing inflammation in the colon.
Use and Dosage
Asacol HD is available in the form of delayed-release tablets (enteric-coated) and should be taken orally as directed by your healthcare provider, typically three times a day with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets. Take the tablet on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
The usual dose of Asacol HD is 1600 mg taken orally three times a day with or without food. As with all prescription medications, follow your doctor’s instructions for taking Asacol HD and be aware of potential side effects. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medications.
Do not change your dosage or stop taking Asacol HD without first consulting your doctor. If you have any questions about how to use Asacol HD, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Asacol HD (Mesalamine):
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Gas
- Headache
- Rash
- Abnormal liver function tests
Serious Side Effects of Asacol HD (Mesalamine):
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Severe stomach pain
- Stomach cramping
- Bloody diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
- Skin rash
- Bloody or tarry stools
- Coughing up blood
- Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Little or no urination
- Painful or difficult urination
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Upper stomach pain
- Tiredness
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools and
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Forms and Strength
Asacol HD (Mesalamine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Asacol HD: Delayed Release Tablet
- 800 mg
Mesalamine: Delayed Release Tablet (Enteric Coated)
- 800 mg
Cautions
- Kidney problems: Asacol HD may cause or worsen kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may check to see how well your kidneys are working before and during treatment with Asacol HD.
- Blood disorders: Asacol HD may affect your blood cells and cause problems like decreased blood cell counts. Your healthcare provider may monitor your blood while you are taking Asacol HD.
- Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome: Some people taking mesalamine-containing products like Asacol HD may experience a worsening of their colitis symptoms or other allergic reactions. If you experience these symptoms, you should stop taking the medication and inform your healthcare provider.
- Drug interactions: Asacol HD may interact with other medications, such as blood thinners or immunosuppressants, and enhance or decrease their effectiveness. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements.
- Liver disease: Asacol HD may cause or worsen liver problems. Inform your healthcare provider if you have liver disease or have had liver problems in the past.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Asacol HD, which may include symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Asacol HD should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if it is clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits of using Asacol HD in these situations with your healthcare provider.
- Impaired renal function: Asacol HD can cause renal impairment in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction. Close monitoring of renal function is recommended in these patients.
- Rare gastrointestinal side effects: rare cases of ischemic colitis and exacerbation of Crohn’s disease have been reported in patients taking Asacol HD. You should inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of Crohn’s disease or if you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, or fever while taking Asacol HD.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Asacol HD be used to treat Crohn’s disease?
Asacol HD is not typically used to treat Crohn’s disease, as it primarily works in the colon. However, in some cases it may be prescribed for patients with Crohn’s disease who have inflammation in the colon.
Can Asacol HD be taken with other medications?
Asacol HD can interact with other medications, so you should talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking before starting Asacol HD.
How long does it take for Asacol HD to start working?
Asacol HD may take several weeks to start working. Continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not notice improvement right away.
Can Asacol HD be taken with food?
Asacol HD should be taken with food to help improve absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset.
How should Asacol HD be stored?
Asacol HD should be stored at room temperature and protected from moisture and light.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152452/asacol-hd-oral/details
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-asacol-hd
- https://www.rxlist.com/asacol-hd-drug.htm
- https://www.asacolhd.com/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mesalamine-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20064708
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