Asacol (Mesalamine) Asacol Information Asacol with the generic name of Mesalamine is used to treat inflammation, damage in the body tissues, and diarrhea by minimizing the activity of a specific substance in the body that causes such conditions. Asacol Indications Asacol is mostly prescribed to patients prone to: * Ulcerative Colitis * Proctitis * Proctosigmoiditis Asacol Warnings/Precautions It is strongly recommended to inform your doctor if you are suffering from any type of kidney disease prior to taking Asacol. You may be given a lesser dosage or may be put under close monitoring during the treatment period. Asacol belongs to drugs labeled as FDA Pregnancy Category B. This entails that it is unlikely to harm an unborn child. Though that is the case, pregnant moms are still suggested to see their doctor before deciding to take this medication. Nursing mothers are also suggested to seek medical advice before taking Asacol as it passes into breast milk and may cause harm on the feeding baby. Asacol Intake Instructions This drug must be taken as directed by your physician. Each tablet/capsule must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, broken, or chewed as the formula is released upon reaching the stomach. However, inform your doctor if you see any undissolved tablet in your stool. Each dose of Asacol is taken with a full glass of water. It is not a stomach irritant so it can be taken on a full or empty stomach. If you will be using rectal medication, follow instructions stated below: For suppositories, * Remove foil wrapper. * With the pointed end, insert suppository into the rectum. * This medicament is formulated to melt at body temperature. Refrain excessive handling. * Let suppository retain for one to three (1-3) hours or longer. For suspensions, * Shake well before use. * Remove cap and hold bottle at the neck to prevent spillage. * Insert into the rectum slowly while making sure it is pointing towards the umbilicus or belly button. * Squeeze bottle steadily to discharge medication. * Let suspension retain overnight. Asacol Missed Dose Asacol must not be double dosed. If you happen to miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember as long as it is not almost time for the next dose. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and proceed with the next scheduled dose. Asacol Overdose Seek immediate medical attention if you feel any of these over dosage symptoms: * Ringing in the ears * Dizziness * Headache * Confusion * Drowsiness * Sweating * Hyperventilation * Vomi ting * Diarrhea Asacol Side Effects Quit intake of Asacol and seek medical assistance if you experience any of the following: * Allergic reactions such as difficulty in breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or hives * Worsening colitis (fever, abdominal pain, cramps, bloody diarrhea) * Chest pain or shortness of breath Less severe side effects include: * Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, or belching * Headache or dizziness * Chills or sweating * Rashes You may continue use of Asacol in these cases but inform your doctor about it. For other side effects not listed above that are particularly causing discomfort, let your doctor know. Asacol Drug Interactions Though Asacol is not known to interact with other medicines, it is still best to tell your doctor of other prescribed or over-the-counter medications you are presently taking.