Asacol

Asacol is a prescription medicine that is used for treating ulcerative colitis in adults. It is thought to work by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. Asacol comes in the form of delayed-release tablets, which do not dissolve until they reach the very end of the small intestine. Side effects of Asacol can include a sore throat, belching, and stomach pain (or abdominal pain).

 

What Is Asacol?

Asacol® (mesalamine) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ulcerative colitis.
 
(Click Asacol Uses for more information on what Asacol is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Asacol?

Asacol is manufactured by Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Asacol Work?

Asacol belongs to a group of medications called aminosalicylates. It is thought that Asacol works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the lining of the colon. Asacol decreases the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that lead to the inflammation of ulcerative colitis.
 
Asacol tablets have a special delayed-release coating. The coating prevents Asacol tablets from dissolving until they reach the very end of the small intestine.
 

Asacol Effects

In previous clinical studies, people taking Asacol experienced less bleeding and diarrhea than those not taking the medication. Asacol was also shown to help prevent ulcerative colitis symptoms from returning.
 
One interesting study looked at the effect of Asacol on male infertility. Sulfasalazine (a similar medication for ulcerative colitis) often causes male infertility. In this small study, men who developed infertility while taking sulfasalazine were switched to Asacol. All men showed improved sperm count, and eight out of nine men showed improved sperm motility.
 
(Asacol Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;