Asacol (Mesalamine)

Indications

Asacol is a prescription medication used to treat moderately active ulcerative colitis (UC) in adults. It helps to reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain. It contains Mesalamine as an active ingredient. Mesalamine belongs to a class of drugs known as aminosalicylates, which are anti-inflammatory drugs that act on the inflamed lining of the gut by stopping the body from producing certain substances that may cause inflammation in the colon. Mesalamine works by decreasing inflammation and swelling in the colon.

Uses and Dosage

Asacol (mesalamine) comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually three times daily. Swallow the tablet whole and not crush, chew, or break it, as doing so can prevent the drug from being properly released into the colon. During treatment with Asacol, drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor to help prevent kidney stones.

To get the most benefit from Asacol, use the medication regularly and take it at the same time each day. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's response to the medication. Here are some dosage recommendations from the search results:

For adults, the recommended dosage of Asacol is typically 800 mg (two 400 mg tablets) three times daily (total daily dosage of 2.4 grams) for a total of 6 to 8 weeks. However, the appropriate dosage may vary depending on individual medical needs and response to the medication.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Asacol (Mesalamine):

• Abnormal liver function tests
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Headache
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Rash
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Asacol (Mesalamine):

• Bloody diarrhea
• Bloody or tarry stools
• Clay-colored stools
• Coughing up blood
• Dark urine
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Feeling tired
• Fever
• Headache
• Little or no urination
• Loss of appetite
• Painful or difficult urination
• Severe stomach pain
• Shortness of breath
• Skin rash
• Stomach cramping
• Swelling in your feet or ankles
• Upper stomach pain
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Form and Strength

Asacol (Mesalamine) is available in the following forms and strength:

Asacol: DR Tablet

• 400 mg

Mesalamine: DR Tablet

• 400 mg

Caution

• Asacol may interact with other medications, including blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and immunosuppressants. Talk to a healthcare professional about all medications being taken to avoid any potential interactions.
• Allergic reactions to Asacol are rare, but they can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• If you are allergic to mesalamine or any of the ingredients in Asacol, you should not take the medication.
• Asacol can make your skin sensitive to the sun if you have skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and atopic eczema. Try to limit your time in the sun. You should use sunscreen and wear a hat, and clothes that cover your skin, if you have to be in the sunlight.
• Asacol may cause kidney problems or make existing kidney problems worse. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems before taking Asacol.
• Asacol may cause liver problems or make existing liver problems worse. Your doctor may monitor your liver function while you are taking Asacol.
• Asacol may affect blood cell count or increase the risk of bleeding. Tell your doctor if you have a history of blood disorders or are taking blood thinners.
• Asacol should only be used during pregnancy if it is clearly needed. It is not known if Asacol passes into breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take for Asacol to work?

The time it takes for Asacol to work can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's response to the medication. Continue taking Asacol as directed by a healthcare professional, even if symptoms improve.

How should Asacol be stored?

Asacol should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Asacol?

If a dose of Asacol is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed.

Resources

• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9006/asacol-oral/details
• https://www.asacolhd.com/
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/021830s019lbl.pdf
• https://www.drugs.com/asacol.html
• https://www.fda.gov/files/advisory%20committees/published/presentation--pediatric-focused-safety-review-for-asacol-and-delzicol.pdf