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 available for purchase. 

Mesalamine comes as a delayed-release (releases the medication in the intestine where its effects are needed) tablet, a delayed-release (releases the medication in the intestine where its effects are needed) capsule, a controlled-release (releases the medication throughout the digestive system) capsule, and as an extended-release (long-acting) capsule to take by mouth. Your doctor will tell you how often to take your medication, depending on your condition and how well your symptoms are controlled. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take mesalamine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the delayed-release tablets and delayed-release capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Be careful not to break the protective coating on the delayed-release tablets. 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.

Before taking mesalamine,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to mesalamine, balsalazide (Colazal, Giazo); olsalazine (Dipentum); 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, aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn); azathioprine (Azasan, Imuran); or mercaptopurine (Purinethol), and any other medicines not mentioned here. 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.
• if you have phenylketonuria (PKU, an inherited condition in which a special diet must be followed to prevent mental retardation), you should know that the extended-release capsules contain aspartame that forms phenylalanine.

Mesalamine may cause side effects including:

• muscle or joint pain, aching, tightness or stiffness
• back pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• heartburn
• burping, constipation, gas;
• dry mouth
• itching
• dizziness
• sweating
• acne
• slight hair loss
• decreased appetite

Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away.

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms or those listed in the SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS section, call your doctor immediately:

• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• black or tarry stools
• bloody vomit
• vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds
• swelling of any part of the body

Mesalamine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.

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 generic alternative?

A: Mesalamine (Generic) is available for purchase at a lower price than the brand name. 

Q: Are there any known drugs that interact with Asacol?

A: Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb mesalamine.

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.

Q: How should I store this medication?

A: Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat, light, and moisture (not in the bathroom). 

Q: What if I suspect someone has overdosed on Asacol?

A: Call your local poison control center or doctor. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services.