Side Effects of Asacol (Oral Mesalamine)

What Is Asacol?

Asacol (mesalamine) is a 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) drug that was approved in August 1997 for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Asacol acts topically on the intestines, suppressing the inflammation that is caused by ulcerative colitis, which is one of the main forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Asacol was previously also sometimes used to treat another type of IBD, Crohn's disease.

However, it has since been studied more closely and IBD specialists now believe that mesalamine is not very effective for treating Crohn's disease, and it is no longer recommended for routine use in treating this form of IBD.

Asacol Is A Maintenance Drug

Asacol is classified a "maintenance" drug, which means that it is given on a long-term basis to treat ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation in the colon, among other signs and symptoms throughout the body. Asacol is used to help stop the inflammation in the colon that is present, and typically starts to take effect in about 3 weeks. After inflammation is under control, patients are prescribed this drug to help prevent more flare-ups of the disease from occurring.

This maintenance drug is known to have a relatively low incidence (rate) of side effects, although some are still possible. Following is a list of the potential side effects and adverse effects of Asacol.

Common Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

abdominal or stomach cramps or pain (mild)
diarrhea (mild)
dizziness; headache (mild)
runny or stuffy nose or sneezing

Less Frequent or Rare

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

acne
back or joint pain
gas or flatulence
indigestion
loss of appetite
loss of hair

Always Notify Doctor

Less common

abdominal or stomach cramps or pain (severe)
bloody diarrhea
fever
headache (severe)
skin rash and itching

Rare

anxiety
back or stomach pain (severe)
blue or pale skin
chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder
chills
fast heartbeat
nausea or vomiting
shortness of breath
swelling of the stomach
unusual tiredness or weakness
yellow eyes or skin

Symptoms of an Overdose

confusion; diarrhea (severe or continuing)
dizziness or lightheadedness
drowsiness (severe)
fast or deep breathing
headache (severe or continuing)
earing loss or ringing or buzzing in ears (continuing)
nausea or vomiting (continuing)

Warnings With Asacol

Asacol is considered to be relatively safe, but it has been associated with some adverse events that people who take this drug should be aware. Some people have developed problems with their kidneys, and it's recommended that people taking this drug have their kidney function checked every so often.

Some people have also had adverse reactions that mimic the symptoms of a flare-up of ulcerative colitis, which includes diarrhea, headache, and abdominal pain. Allergic reactions are also possible, and the prescribing physician should be told about any previous allergic reactions to mesalamine or to sulfasalazine.

The Bottom Line

Asacol is generally tolerated very well by most people, and it is often used long-term by those who have ulcerative colitis. However, as with any drug, there is the potential for adverse effects and side effects. For most people the side effects are mild, but people taking Asacol should be aware of the potential for an allergic reaction, an adverse effect on the kidneys, or a worsening of diarrhea and abdominal pain. For any concerns about the side effects of Asacol, contact your doctor.

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor. This information is meant only as a guideline - always consult a physician or pharmacist for complete information about prescription medications.