What is Asacol 400mg?
Asacol 400mg is a prescription medicine to treat certain bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.
It provides quick relief from ulcerative colitis symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, and rectal bleeding.
Asacol tablets contain Mesalazine, which belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-inflammatory medicines.
After a valid prescription, this medicine can be purchased from a licensed drugstore.
Uses of Asacol 400mg
Doctors prescribe Asacol 400mg for:
Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder that causes inflammation of the large intestine lining.
It produces ulcers on the lining of the colon, which can lead to bleeding and discharge of pus & mucus.
The working mechanism of Asacol 400mg
Asacol contains Mesalazine as its active ingredient, which works by obstructing the production of some chemical substances like prostaglandins.
It is essential to know that prostaglandins are responsible for causing pain and swelling.
In this way, Mesalazine decreases inflammation in the intestines and gives relief from symptoms like bleeding or stomach pain.
How to take Asacol 400mg?
Take this medicine by mouth with or without food as prescribed by a doctor, mainly three times daily.
Your doctor may also suggest taking this medicine on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Swallow the tablet as a whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it. Doing so can keep this medicine from being released in the colon.
To prevent kidney stones, drink plenty of fluids during treatment with this medicine.
The dosage of this medication is based on your medical condition, your body’s response to treatment, and age.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Asacol 400mg, take it as soon as possible. Skip your missed dose if it’s time for the next prescribed dosage.
Continue your regular dose schedule, and never double the dose to catch up on missed doses.
Overdose
If you have overdosed and experience severe symptoms like trouble breathing or passing out, immediately contact your doctor.
Side effects of Asacol 400mg
Most side effects of this medicine do not require medical attention and disappear once your body adjusts to the Asacol tablet.
You might sometimes see whole or partial tablets in your stool. If this happens, inform your doctor.
It may be possible that you are not able to absorb enough of this medicine.
Rarely, Asacol can worsen your ulcerative colitis. Inform the doctor immediately if your symptoms get worse after taking this medicine.
Some common side effects of Asacol 400mg include:
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Hair loss
- Constipation
Get emergency medical help if any of your side effects persist or worsen.
Precautions and warnings for Asacol 400mg
Before taking Asacol 400mg, inform the doctor if you are allergic to it, Mesalamine, or other aminosalicylates. This medicine might contain some inactive ingredients, which can cause you allergic reactions. Discuss with your doctor once.
Before you use this medicine, let the doctor know about your medical history, especially of:
- Stomach blockage
- Kidney disease
- Liver disorder
This medicine might make you more sensitive to the sun, especially if you suffer from skin disorders. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit your exposure to sunlight.
Pregnant women should take this medicine only after discussing the benefits and risks with the doctor.
Mesalamine passes into breast milk and might have undesirable effects on nursing infants. Before breastfeeding, consult your doctor.
Frequently asked questions about Asacol 400mg (FAQs)
My symptoms have improved. Can I stop taking Asacol 400mg tablet?
No, continue taking this medicine as directed by your doctor, even if you feel better at the beginning of treatment.
Unless the doctor recommends, continue taking the Asacol tablet.
Can I have alcohol while taking Asacol 400mg?
You must avoid alcohol if you have ulcerative colitis because alcohol can irritate your stomach & intestine, which will worsen your condition.
