Product Details: Asacol (Mesalamine)

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Procter & Gamble

Generic Options

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

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

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. CONTINUE TO USE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. 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.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur during treatment include mild diarrhea, constipation, mild nausea or vomiting, mild headache, back or joint pain, gas, heartburn, or mild abdominal discomfort or pain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience decreased urination. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience severe cramping, severe abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or severe headache. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Mesalamine