Asacol is the brand name for the drug mesalamine. Asacol is usually prescribed to patients who suffer from ulcerative colitis. It treats the condition by reducing the swelling and inflammation of the colon and rectum. Asacol is a prescription drug, and is not available over the counter. If your doctor has prescribes Asacol for any reason, it is important that you know how to take the medication properly to avoid unusual reactions or ineffectiveness.

Dosage and frequency

Take Asacol only in the exact amount prescribed by your doctor. Check the recommendation for frequency of doses as well, and follow those instructions accordingly. If you have multiple doses that you need to take in one day, take them at the same time each day. A good way to remember when to take your medication is to take each dose with a meal, or set an alarm as a reminder. Make up for missed doses by taking them as soon as you realize that you have skipped a dose, as long as your next dose is not due soon. If it is almost time for another dose, do not take an extra pill.

Administration

Take your medication with water, and swallow it completely. Do not cut the tablet, smash it or chew it. If the coating over the tablet is removed or dissolved, the medication will absorb into your body before it can reach your lower intestines. It is very important for the medication to reach the lower intestines in order to reduce inflammation or swelling in that area.

Side effects

Keep track of the side effects you experience so you can notify your physician. There are several side effects commonly experienced by patients who use Asacol. Those include constipation, diarrhea, muscle fatigue and weakness, acne, edema, excess gas and bloating or indigestion. If you experience those side effects longer than seven days, or if you experience any side effects that are not listed, call your doctor right away. He may decide to change your dosage or discontinue your use of Asacol.

Source:

MedicineNet

Med Library