What is Asacol?

Asacol (Mesalamine) is a medication prescribed to treat moderately active ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease in adults. Asacol helps to reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis including diarrhea, stomach pain and rectal bleeding and woks by stopping the body from preducing substances that cause inflammation which reduces swelling within the colon.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Asacol should be taken orally either with or without food and is typically prescribed to be taken three times each day.
• Asacol should be swallowed whole. Crushing, chewing or breaking open this medication can keep the drug from being properly released into the colon.
• Your mesalamine dosage is based on your weight, medical condition and response to treatment.
• This medication should be used regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of kidney disease, liver disease, skin problems or stomach blockage.

Also be aware that:

• Different brands of this medication may deliver different amounts of the medication. Do not switch brands without your doctor’s permission and directions.
• Children and teenagers should not take this medication, aspirin or other aspirin-related medications if they have chickenpox, flu, any undiagnosed illness or if they have recently received a vaccination.
• Only use Asacol when clearly needed during pregnancy.
• Asacol passes into breast milk and can have undesirable effects on nursing infants.

Common mesalamine side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea, constipation or diarrhea.
• Runny or stuffy nose, rashes, sore throat or sinus pain.
• Symptoms of flu.
• Headaches, back pain or stomach pain.
• Abnormal liver function tests.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Asacol side effects:

• Severe stomach pain or cramps.
• Bloody diarrhea, bloody stools or tarry stools.
• Coughing up blood, spitting up blood or vomit which looks like coffee grounds.
• Signs of kidney problems such as little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, tiredness, shortness of breath or swelling in your feet or ankles.
• Signs of liver problems such as loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools or jaundice.

Q: How much does mesalamine cost?

The price of mesalamine is based on whether you are looking for brand Asacol or the generic alternative and both brand and generic are available in 400mg and 800mg strength. You can make better savings by ordering a 90 day supply of your medication.

Q: What should I do if I want to change brands of mesalamine?

A: Different brands of this medication may deliver different amounts of the medication. Do not switch brands without your doctor’s permission and directions.