Asacol, also known as mesalamine, is an aminosalicylate (an antibacterial agent that is effective against mycobacteria) that has fewer side effects than other ulcerative colitis drugs. If prescribed this for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (or UC), it should be taken precisely as prescribed. Doses range from two to four times a day anywhere from 800-1600 mg. It needs to be taken with a large glass of water, with or without food and without chewing or crushing. It takes a full three weeks before it is fully effective, so it will not show immediate signs of helping the condition.
Asacol side effects are either common, reportable (those that one should let their doctor know about as soon as they are experienced), and less common. There are also some items that other patients experience that are not on these lists, so please check with the prescribing physician with any unusual symptoms.
Common Asacol Side Effects
These are common side effects and a general percentage of patients who report getting the side effect in those studies that have been given.
- Stomach Pain – 18%
- Belching – 16%
- Generalized Pain – 14%
- Sore Throat – 11%
- Any Back Pain – 7%
- Joint Pain and Muscle Tension – 5%
- Vomiting or Constipation – 5%
These are some of the most common of the Asacol side effects but isn’t indicative of being a comprehensive list.
Less Common Asacol Side Effects
These are the lesser of the common Asacol side effects and only occur in 2 or 3% of patients.
- Muscle Pain
- Migraines
- Anxiety
- Acne
- Sweating
- Cough
- Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
- Arthritis
These lesser common side effects may occur infrequently by coming and going, or never be experienced at all. 97% or higher of patients will never experience these symptoms.
Reportable Asacol Side Effects
These Asacol side effects should be reported to your prescribing physician as soon as they are experienced.
- Gout
- Depression
- Ulcerative Colitis worsening
- Yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, upper right stomach pain (signs of Liver damage)
- Decrease in urine
- Rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing (signs of Allergy)
All of these are very serious side effects that should be monitored by a doctor at first signs of trouble.
As with any drug, if allergic reaction symptoms such as difficulty breathing, body rashes, itching, and swelling occur go immediately to an urgent care facility or emergency room. If unable, call 911. Keep the doctor informed of all changes after starting a new medication.
For More Information: 100 Questions and Answers About Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis - Andrew S Warner
The First Year: Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: An Essential for the Newly Diagnosed - Jill Sklar
Tina Samuels - Tina Samuels specializes in health, animal, and gardening articles. She authored "A Georgia Native Plant Guide".
