Generic Asacol, enteric coated tabs

Chemical Name: MESALAMINE

Common uses

This medicine is an anti-inflammatory used to treat ulcerative colitis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Do not take this medicine if you are also taking probenecid or sulfinpyrazone. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking acetazolamide, anticoagulants, methazolamide, dichlorphenamide, valproic acid, or medicines for diabetes. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Swallow whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. You may take this medicine with food or milk to decrease the chance for stomach upset. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin. A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to this medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen after you start using this medicine, check with your doctor.

Do not stop using this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Intact or partially intact tablets are occasionally found in the stool. If this occurs repeatedly, check with your doctor.

For women: this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include mild diarrhea, dizziness, mild headache, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, acne, back or joint pain, gas, heartburn, loss of appetite, hair loss, or mild abdominal discomfort or pain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor right away if you experience severe cramping, severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, severe headache, or rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include ringing in ears, headache, confusion, drowsiness, sweating, fast breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.