Generic Asacol (Mesalamine)

Introduction

Asacol is a brand name for a medication that contains the active ingredient mesalamine. It is a type of anti-inflammatory drug used to treat mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Asacol is available as a pill, typically in 400mg dosages. Mesalamine works by reducing inflammation in the colon. While primarily used for ulcerative colitis, it may also be used for other inflammatory bowel conditions under medical supervision.

Quick Reference Facts

Active Ingredient

Mesalamine

Form

pill 400mg

Primary and Off-Label Uses

Ulcerative colitis, proctitis, proctosigmoiditis

What is Asacol?

Asacol is a prescription medication containing mesalamine, also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). It belongs to the class of drugs known as aminosalicylates. Asacol is specifically formulated to deliver mesalamine directly to the colon, where it can exert its anti-inflammatory effects. While Asacol is a brand name, mesalamine is available generically, offering a more affordable alternative. Generic versions of medications containing mesalamine are marketed under various brand names and as unbranded generics, often at a lower cost than the original branded product.

How Asacol Works

The precise mechanism by which mesalamine (the active ingredient in Asacol) exerts its anti-inflammatory effects is not fully understood. However, current scientific understanding suggests that it works locally within the lining of the colon. Mesalamine is believed to inhibit inflammatory pathways, such as the cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) pathways, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, potent mediators of inflammation. It may also scavenge reactive oxygen species, further reducing inflammatory damage. By reducing inflammation in the colon, mesalamine helps to alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The pill formulation is designed to delay the release of mesalamine until it reaches the colon, ensuring targeted delivery and minimizing absorption in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Conditions Treated with Asacol

Asacol is primarily approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Its specific indications typically include:

• Ulcerative Colitis: Asacol is used to induce and maintain remission in patients with mild to moderate active ulcerative colitis. This condition involves inflammation and ulceration of the colon and rectum. By reducing inflammation, Asacol helps to decrease symptoms such as diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and urgency.
• Proctitis: This refers to inflammation of the rectum, which can be a component of ulcerative colitis. Asacol can be effective in managing this localized inflammation.
• Proctosigmoiditis: This involves inflammation of the rectum and the sigmoid colon, the lower part of the large intestine. Asacol can help to control inflammation in this segment of the colon.

Is Asacol the Right Medication for You?

Asacol is generally considered for adults diagnosed with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, proctitis, or proctosigmoiditis. It is a suitable option for patients who require targeted anti-inflammatory action within the colon to manage their symptoms and achieve remission. Patients who have not responded adequately to other treatments or who experience significant side effects from different drug classes may also be considered for mesalamine therapy.

However, Asacol may not be appropriate for everyone. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to mesalamine, other salicylates (like aspirin), or any of the inactive ingredients in Asacol should avoid this medication. Caution is also advised in patients with pre-existing kidney or liver disease, as these conditions can affect how the body processes and eliminates mesalamine. Conditions that cause severe obstruction of the stomach or intestines are also contraindications. A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history and current health status to determine if Asacol is the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

Buying Asacol from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service?

Our online pharmacy service is dedicated to providing convenient and reliable access to essential medications like Asacol. We understand that obtaining necessary treatments can sometimes be challenging due to cost, availability, or logistical hurdles. Our platform aims to bridge these gaps by offering a streamlined and discreet way to acquire your medication, ensuring you can manage your health condition effectively without unnecessary complications.

Quality & Safety Assurance

We partner with licensed international pharmacies to ensure quality and authenticity. All medications sourced through our service originate from reputable suppliers who adhere to strict international pharmaceutical standards and regulatory requirements, guaranteeing that you receive genuine Asacol.

Pricing & Access

We strive to offer Asacol at competitive prices, often significantly lower than those found through traditional retail channels. For individuals seeking mesalamine, purchasing generic versions through our pharmacy service can provide substantial cost savings compared to brand-name products. This accessibility ensures that more patients can afford their ongoing treatment, contributing to better health outcomes.

Discreet Delivery

Discretion and privacy are paramount to our service. All orders are packaged securely and sent in plain, unmarked boxes to protect your confidentiality. With express delivery typically within 7 days or standard airmail in approximately 3 weeks, you can expect your medication to arrive promptly and without any indication of its contents.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

The typical dosage of Asacol for adults with ulcerative colitis is one 400mg pill taken three times daily. For maintenance of remission, the dosage may be adjusted as directed by a healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage regimen precisely.

If you miss a dose of Asacol, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. If it is nearing the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

In case of an overdose, particularly if a significantly larger amount than prescribed has been taken, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, rapid breathing, and ringing in the ears. Contact your local emergency services or poison control centre. Asacol should generally be taken with meals to help with absorption and tolerance, and it is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase the risk of stomach irritation.

Safety Information

⚠️ Who Should Not Take Asacol

Asacol is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to mesalamine, salicylates (including aspirin), or any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation. Individuals with severe kidney disease or liver disease should generally avoid Asacol, as their ability to process and excrete the drug may be impaired, increasing the risk of adverse effects. It is also not recommended for patients with mechanical gastrointestinal obstructions or perforations.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of Asacol are generally mild and may include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, stomach cramps, and flatulence. Skin rash or itching can also occur. These symptoms are often transient and may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects are bothersome or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)

Although rare, serious side effects can occur. These include severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) with symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Kidney problems may manifest as changes in urination frequency, swelling of the ankles or feet, or unexplained fatigue. Liver problems can present as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe nausea/vomiting. Symptoms of a rare condition called hemolytic anemia may include paleness, weakness, and shortness of breath. Myocarditis and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle or lining) can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of heart pounding. If you experience any of these severe reactions, stop taking Asacol and seek immediate medical attention.

Drug & Food Interactions

Several medications can interact with mesalamine. Combining Asacol with other salicylates, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, can increase the risk of side effects, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding. Use of certain medications that affect kidney function, such as diuretics or other nephrotoxic drugs, may also increase the risk of kidney problems when taken with Asacol. Theophylline, a medication for asthma, may have its blood levels increased by mesalamine. Similarly, it may increase the effects of warfarin, an anticoagulant, increasing bleeding risk. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Asacol, as it can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects. Specific food interactions are generally minimal, but it is always wise to discuss your diet with your healthcare provider.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Asacol

While Asacol's primary approved use is for ulcerative colitis, mesalamine has been studied and, in some cases, used off-label for other conditions. Clinical studies suggest potential benefits in treating other forms of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease, particularly in specific localised forms or for maintaining remission. Some research has also explored its use in managing pouchitis, an inflammation of the surgically created intestinal pouch that can occur after colectomy for ulcerative colitis. Additionally, mesalamine has been investigated for its potential role in chemoprevention, particularly in patients with a history of colorectal adenomas or dysplasia, due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. It is important to note that these off-label uses have not undergone the same rigorous regulatory approval process as its indication for ulcerative colitis, and their efficacy and safety may not be as well established. Any use of Asacol for conditions other than those officially approved should only be undertaken under the close guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Storage & Handling

Asacol pills should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). They should be kept away from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and moisture. It is important to keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from degradation. Do not store Asacol in the bathroom or near a sink where it might be exposed to humidity. Check the expiry date on the packaging and do not use the medication if it has passed this date. For safe disposal of any unused or expired medication, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal guidelines to ensure it is handled appropriately and does not pose a risk to the environment or public health.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Using Asacol

• Can I take Asacol with grapefruit juice? Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications by affecting how they are metabolised in the body. For Asacol, it is generally advisable to avoid grapefruit juice unless specifically cleared by your healthcare provider.

• Is it safe to take Asacol while traveling across time zones? When travelling across time zones, try to maintain your regular dosing schedule as close to the original times as possible. If this is difficult, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalised advice on adjusting your Asacol regimen.

• Can I crush or split the Asacol pills? Asacol pills are typically designed for delayed or controlled release, meaning they have a special coating that ensures the medication reaches the colon. Crushing or splitting these pills can disrupt this mechanism, potentially affecting absorption and efficacy, or leading to stomach irritation. Always take them whole.

Product Information

• What do Asacol pills look like? Asacol 400mg pills are generally oval-shaped and film-coated, often appearing white or off-white. Specific markings or imprints may vary by manufacturer. It is best to confirm with the packaging or your pharmacist regarding the precise appearance of the pills you receive.

• What are the inactive ingredients in Asacol? Inactive ingredients in Asacol can vary slightly between formulations and manufacturers but often include compounds such as cellulose, starch, povidone, magnesium stearate, and various coating agents. These do not have a therapeutic effect but are essential for the pill's structure and delivery.

Safety & Regulations

• Will Asacol show up on a drug test? Asacol contains mesalamine, which is not a substance typically screened for in standard drug tests for illicit substances or performance-enhancing drugs. Therefore, it is unlikely to cause a positive result on common drug screening panels.

• Are there specific warnings for elderly patients taking Asacol? Elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects of Asacol, particularly kidney problems. They may also have co-existing conditions or be taking other medications that could interact. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

• Can Asacol be taken during pregnancy? The safety of Asacol during pregnancy is not definitively established. Mesalamine can pass into breast milk. Treatment should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks, and this decision must be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.

Glossary

Aminosalicylates

A class of drugs used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, including mesalamine, that work by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.

Ulcerative Colitis

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and sores in the lining of the colon and rectum.

Mechanism of Action

The specific biochemical process through which a drug produces its pharmacological effect, such as reducing inflammation at a cellular level.

Remission

A period where the symptoms of a chronic disease, like ulcerative colitis, are reduced or absent.

Chemoprevention

The use of drugs to prevent the onset of a disease or to prevent its recurrence, particularly in conditions with a known risk of progression or malignancy.

Disclaimer

The information provided regarding Asacol is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. It is crucial to remember that all treatment decisions, including those related to off-label uses, should be discussed and managed under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We operate under the assumption that all individuals accessing this information are responsible adults capable of making informed choices about their health and well-being. Our online pharmacy service is designed to facilitate access to Asacol for those who may face challenges with traditional procurement methods, such as limited availability or cost barriers associated with generic alternatives. We strongly advise that you always consult with your doctor before initiating, altering, or discontinuing any medication regimen.