Asacol and Insomnia

There are many possible side effects of Asacol, and insomnia is a problem that has been reported by up to 2 percent of people taking the drug. If you are taking Asacol and insomnia occurs, you can try improving your sleep habits by keeping a regular sleep-wake cycle, avoiding large meals within two hours of bedtime, and sleeping in a dark room with a comfortable temperature, among other things.

 

An Introduction to Asacol and Insomnia

Insomnia is a common side effect of Asacol® (mesalamine). In previous studies, up to 2 percent of people reported insomnia as one of the Asacol side effects. In contrast, none of the people who were not taking Asacol experienced insomnia.
 

What Is Insomnia?

People with insomnia have one or more of the following insomnia symptoms:
 
  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking up often during the night and having trouble going back to sleep
  • Waking up too early in the morning
  • Having non-refreshing sleep.
     

Suggestions for Asacol and Insomnia

In some cases of insomnia in people taking Asacol, the insomnia cure can be improving sleep habits. Some tips for better sleep include:
 
  • Keeping a regular sleep-wake cycle. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same times every day.
     
  • Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the four to six hours before bedtime.
     
  • Avoiding exercise within two hours of bedtime. Exercising five or six hours before bedtime may help you sleep more soundly.
     
  • Avoiding large meals within two hours of bedtime.
     
  • Napping no later than 3 p.m.
     
  • Sleeping in a dark, quiet room with a comfortable temperature.
     
  • Doing a quiet activity somewhere else if you can't fall asleep within 20 minutes. Return to bed when you're sleepy.
     
  • Winding down in the 30 minutes before bedtime with a relaxing pre-sleep ritual such as a warm bath, soft music, or reading.
     
(Click Good Sleep Habits for more suggestions.)
 
(Asacol and Insomnia Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;