Side Effects
Common side effects of Asacol include mild nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, gas, fever, sore throat, flu-like symptoms, constipation, headache, dizziness, tired feeling, or skin rash. Tell your doctor if you have serious side effects of Asacol including severe stomach pain, cramping, fever, headache, and bloody diarrhea.
Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, or joint/muscle pain may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
Bloody diarrhea, rectal bleeding, stomach pain less common Bloody stools, bloody urine, blurred vision, chest tightness, chills, clay-colored stools, cough, dark urine, diarrhea, difficulty with breathing, dizziness, fever, full or bloated feeling, general feeling of discomfort or illness, headache, itching, skin rash, joint pain, loss of appetite may occur.
Uses
Asacol (Mesalamine Delayed-Release Tablets) is used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, proctitis, and proctosigmoiditis. It is also prescribed to prevent the recurrence of symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis. The medication belongs to the class of drugs known as anti-inflammatories and works by reducing inflammation in the bowel.
Asacol HD is specifically used to treat moderately active ulcerative colitis in adults when administered in the recommended dosage. The medication helps in reducing symptoms such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, stomach pain, and other related issues. It is essential to take the tablets on an empty stomach and swallow them whole without cutting or breaking them.
When used regularly and as directed by a healthcare professional, Asacol can provide significant benefits to individuals suffering from mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions to maximize the therapeutic effects of the medication.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of Asacol for adults is usually 800 mg (two 400 mg tablets) three times daily, with a total daily dosage of 2.4 grams. Pediatric patients aged 5 years and older are usually prescribed a weight-based total daily dosage of Asacol, which is divided into two daily doses. It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and follow the administration instructions provided by a healthcare professional.
For the treatment of moderately active ulcerative colitis in adults, the recommended dosage of Asacol HD is typically 1600 mg (two 800 mg tablets) three times daily, with a total daily dosage of 4.8 grams. It is crucial to follow the recommended dosage regimen to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.
It is essential to take Asacol tablets on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal, and to swallow them whole without cutting or breaking. Adequate fluid intake is advised while taking this medication to prevent kidney stones. Patients should not switch between different brands of mesalamine-containing medications without consulting their healthcare provider.
Consistency in taking Asacol as prescribed, at the same times each day, is important to maximize its effectiveness. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if there is no improvement in their condition or if it worsens while taking the medication.
Interactions
There are potential drug interactions associated with Asacol (Mesalamine Delayed-Release Tablets) that individuals should be aware of. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid any adverse interactions. Mesalamine can interact with certain drugs, affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.
It is crucial to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if you are using medications that contain balsalazide, olsalazine, or sulfasalazine while taking Mesalamine, as they are similar in composition and may lead to unwanted interactions. Additionally, Mesalamine may interfere with specific laboratory tests, potentially resulting in false test results.
Individuals should notify their healthcare provider about any changes in their medication regimen, and not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medicines without medical supervision. It is recommended to keep a comprehensive list of all the products you use and share it with your healthcare team to prevent any potential drug interactions.
In case of a suspected overdose of Mesalamine with severe symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or trouble breathing, immediate medical attention should be sought by contacting emergency services or a poison control center. Sharing this medication with others should be avoided, and it should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Regular monitoring and medical tests may be conducted before and during Mesalamine treatment to evaluate its effects on liver and kidney function, ensuring its safe usage. Consult your healthcare provider for further guidance and detailed information on drug interactions, usage, and storage of Asacol (Mesalamine Delayed-Release Tablets).
Warnings
Prior to initiating treatment with Asacol (Mesalamine Delayed-Release Tablets), it is crucial to consider certain warnings and precautions. Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to salicylates, aminosalicylates, or any components of Asacol should avoid its use to prevent adverse reactions. It is essential to communicate any known allergies to healthcare providers, including reactions to foods, dyes, preservatives, or other medications.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach blockage should exercise caution while using Asacol and inform their healthcare provider about their medical history. It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and administration instructions to minimize the risk of potential complications.
Patients should be aware of the possible side effects associated with Asacol, such as stomach upset, nausea, constipation, headache, or joint/muscle pain. Continuous monitoring for serious symptoms like loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, tiredness, easy bruising, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice is recommended during treatment.
Special care should be taken in pediatric patients, especially regarding the use of salicylates like aspirin during certain illnesses, vaccinations, or specific health conditions due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Prior consultation with a healthcare professional is advised before undergoing surgery or dental procedures to ensure the safe use of Asacol alongside other medications.
It is important for individuals using Asacol to be cautious of sun exposure, particularly if they have skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or eczema, as the medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Employing sun protection measures like sunscreen and protective clothing is recommended when outdoors to prevent sunburn or skin reactions.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss the potential risks and benefits of Asacol with their healthcare providers before initiating treatment to ensure the safety of the medication for both the mother and the infant. Any concerns about drug interactions or medical tests should be addressed with a pharmacist or healthcare team to prevent any complications.
If there is a suspected overdose of Asacol leading to severe symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or trouble breathing, immediate medical attention should be sought by contacting emergency services or a poison control center. Patients should not share their medication with others and store it appropriately at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers may be necessary to monitor liver and kidney function during Asacol treatment. It is essential for patients to attend medical appointments and adhere to the prescribed regimen to ensure the optimal and safe use of Asacol for the management of ulcerative colitis and related conditions.
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