What is Asacol used for?
Asacol (mesalamine delayed release tablets) is usually prescribed to treat ulcerative colitis (a type of bowel disease). It can reduce symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea and rectal bleeding. This condition is possibly debilitating and, if left untreated, complications can be life threatening. It belongs to the aminosalicylates family of drugs. It may also be used for Crohn's disease if approved by your doctor.
Asacol and 5-ASA EC (Mesalamine) Information
It works by treating swelling in the rectum.
Asacol comes in an oral tablet that is taken orally around 3 times a day, depending on your doctor’s instructions. The tablets need to be taken whole to make sure that the medicine reaches the colon. Crushing, splitting or chewing the pill will prevent it from working properly.
You should drink lots of water when taking your doses. This will prevent kidney stones from forming. You should keep taking it even when you feel better. Do not change your dose otherwise your treatment will be impacted.
Your dose is based on your condition and results of previous treatment. Do not take extra doses as this will not treat symptoms of ulcerative colitis treatment better and may cause side effects. If you miss a dose, you can take it when you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, you can skip the missed dose.
All orders from Sunshine Pharmacy are delivered in the manufacturer's packaging and include a medicine information sheet. We ask that you carefully read this information sheet and call us if you have any questions or do not understand the document .
Before you start taking asacol, let your doctor know if you have a history of the following conditions:
- liver disease
- eczema
- stomach blockage
- atopic dermatitis
- kidney disease
These conditions may worsen when taking asacol or they may affect how the drug works. You may be more sensitive to sunlight when taking this medication. You may be more sensitive to sunlight when taking asacol.
You should avoid direct sunlight for extended periods of time and use sunscreen and wear protective clothing. You should avoid tanning booths as well. Call your healthcare professionals if you develop blisters, redness or sunburn.
If you are taking other prescription drugs to treat ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, follow your doctor's instructions to get the best result. Seem immediate medical attention of you experience trouble breathing or acute intolerance syndrome.
There are potential known drug interactions associated with Asacol. You should disclose all of your current vitamins, supplements, OTC drugs, herbal products and all current prescription medicines. Our pharmacists will provide therapeutic screening for all orders against this supplied list.
Call your doctor or seek immediate medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction or drug interaction.
- Salicylic Acid
- Valdecoxib
- Celecoxib
- Sulfasalazine
- Loxoprofen
- Fenoprofen
- Ketoprofen
- Tiaprofenic Acid
- Rofecoxib
- Choline Salicylate
- Sulindac
- Diflunisal
- Etodolac
- Etoricoxib
- Feprazone
- Trolamine Salicylate
- Aceclofenac
- Lumiracoxib
- Dexketoprofen
- Diclofenac
We do not list all possible known side effects.You may experience a side effect that is not provided here. If you find that you are noticing severe side effects call your doctor or one of our pharmacists for counseling and medical advice.
Your doctor will normally balance the benefits of treatment versus any possible adverse reactions. Please call us and speak to the pharmacist if you have concerns about buying Asacol online.
- sore throat
- pounding in the ears
- yellow eyes or skin
- red, irritated eyes
- rapid breathing
- Burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations
- Acne
- swelling of the feet or lower legs
- nervousness
- weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- swollen or painful glands
- trouble sleeping
- runny or stuffy nose
- dizziness
- change in the ability to see colors, especially blue or yellow
- stomach pain
- joint pain
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sneezing
- pain in the ankles or knees
- weight gain
- excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels
- light-colored stools
- increased thirst
- Cramping, Bloody diarrhea
- large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or genitals
- slow or fast heartbeat
- swelling of the stomach area
- heartburn
- Anxiety
- headache, nausea
The generic equivalent is Mesalamine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asacol and 5-ASA EC (Mesalamine)
It is unclear if Asacol causes hair loss. Some studies indicate it contributes to it, some say that it protects from hair loss. Talk to your doctor before beginning treatment and call your doctor or pharmacist if harloss occurs.
There are currently no known interactions between these products. Call your doctor if you experience any of the signs and symptoms of drug interaction.
Mesalamine can cause mild to moderate liver damage. When treatment is stopped, the damage is healed quickly. Your doctor may need to monitor your liver while taking Asacol and you may need to stop drinking alcohol.
Your dose depends on your condition and history of treatment. Your doctor will advise you on how much Asacol you ought to take in a day. Taking more than your recommended dose will not improve treatment and may lead to an increased risk of experiencing side effects.
With proper use, it can take 2-4 weeks to take effect. Talk to our doctor if you do not see an improvement or if your condition worsens.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is intended as supplementary information to that provided by your doctor. The guidance provided by your doctor supersedes any information provided on the website. Do not avoid or disregard any counseling from your licensed medical professional based on this information. If you have any medical questions that are not answered here, we do offer counseling from a licensed pharmacist.
