Why is Asacol prescribed?

Asacol (Mesalamine) is used to treat ulcerative colitis (a condition which causes swelling and sores in the lining of the colon [large intestine] and rectum) and also to maintain the improvement of ulcerative colitis symptoms. Mesalamine is in a class of medications called anti-inflammatory agents. It works by stopping the body from producing a certain substance that may cause inflammation. Mesalamine (Generic) is also available in addition to the Brand name Asacol in strengths 400mg and 800mg.

What is the most effective way to take Asacol?

Take Asacol HD exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

• Take the tablets with a full glass of water.
• Take Asacol HD delayed-release 800mg tablets on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before and 2 hours after a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on your medicine label.
• Do not crush, break, or chew a delayed-release tablet. Swallow the tablet whole.
• The enteric-coated tablet has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the tablet could damage this coating.
• Continue to take mesalamine until you finish your prescription, even if you feel better at the beginning of your treatment. Do not stop taking mesalamine without talking to your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you find undissolved tablets in your stool.
• Call your doctor if your ulcerative colitis symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
• Asacol HD can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are taking mesalamine.

Before taking mesalamine,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to mesalamine, any other medications, or any of the ingredients found in mesalamine. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: antacids such as aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide (Maalox), calcium carbonate (Tums), or calcium carbonate and magnesium (Rolaids); aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin); azathioprine (Azasan, Imuran); or mercaptopurine (Purinethol). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you more carefully for side effects.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had myocarditis (swelling of the heart muscle), pericarditis (swelling of the sac around the heart), or liver or kidney disease. If you will be taking the delayed-release tablets or capsules, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a gastrointestinal obstruction (a blockage in your stomach or intestine).
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking mesalamine, call your doctor.
• you should know that mesalamine may cause a serious reaction. Many of the symptoms of this reaction are similar to the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, so it may be difficult to tell if you are experiencing a reaction to the medication or a flare (episode of symptoms) of your disease. Call your doctor if you experience some or all of the following symptoms: stomach pain or cramping, bloody diarrhea, fever, headache, weakness, or rash.

Common side effects may include but are not limited to:

• nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation
• runny or stuffy nose, sinus pain, or sore throat
• flu-like symptoms
• headache
• back pain
• rash
• abnormal liver function tests

Stop using Asacol and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain, cramping, or bloody diarrhea
• fever, headache, or skin rash
• bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• kidney problems - little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath
• liver problems - loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, tiredness, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

• Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction - including hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Q: Why is Asacol prescribed?

A: Asacol affects a substance in the body that causes inflammation, tissue damage, and diarrhea.

Q: Does Asacol have a generical alternative?

A: Yes, Mesalamine (Generic) is available for purchase.

Q: Are there any side effects I should be particularly aware of?

A: If you are taking mesalamine delayed-release tablets, you may notice the tablet shell or part of the tablet shell in your stool. Tell your doctor if this happens frequently. See Side Effects section for more.

Q: What if I miss a dose of Asacol?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.