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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, 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 drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks 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 develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Asacol is an inflammatory bowel disease treatment medication available by prescription, and it is most commonly prescribed to treat ulcerative colitis. This medication is part of the aminosalicylates class of drugs, and it works by decreasing swelling in the colon, so diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and stomach pain are reduced. The standard dosage timeline for Asacol medication is to use it for up to 6 weeks for relief of IBD pain and irritation, but if symptoms do not subside after this time, you may need to see a doctor again. Buy Asacol from Canpharm and get the best price on it.
What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions involve the immune system mistakenly attacking the gastrointestinal tract, leading to persistent inflammation and various symptoms. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, while ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C7H7NO3 |
License | US FDA, US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability | orally: 20–30% |
Legal status | Rx-Only |
Chemical Name | Asacol |
Elimination half-life | 5-7 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 400mg. 800mg |
Pregnancy | Consult your healthcare provider |
Brands | Asacol |
Protein binding | 99.9% |
PubChem CID | 4075 |
MedlinePlus | a688021 |
ChEBI | 6775 |
ATC code | A07EC02 |
DrugBank | DB00244 |
KEGG | D00377 |
Routes of administration | By mouth |
Asacol is usually taken 3x daily and at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Medication can be taken with or without food, and it is best to drink plenty of fluids while you are using Asacol to reduce the chance of kidney stones.
Always take your medication exactly as indicated in your prescription, as your Asacol dosage will be dependent on your condition and any responses to existing treatment.
Let your doctor know of any history of liver or kidney disease or stomach blockages before starting on Asacol.
Medication may increase sun sensitivity and it is best to limit sun exposure when using Asacol generic.
Only use medication when pregnant if your doctor approves it as part of ulcerative colitis treatment.
Children under 18 who have received a vaccine recently should not use Asacol unless a doctor approves it.
Be aware of the medication expiry date.
Negative drug interactions may occur between Asacol and other Rx medications, including Abilify (aripiprazole), alprazolam, amlodipine, atenolol, atorvastatin, diphenhydramine, folic acid, furosemide, gabapentin, levothyroxine, atorvastatin, lisinopril, pregabalin, melatonin, metformin, metoprolol, montelukast, esomeprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, montelukast, tramadol, Xanax (alprazolam), Zyrtec (cetirizine).
Side effects from using Asacol may occur, and some users may experience stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, or joint or muscle pain. If side effects are experienced, you may want to stop use and meet with a doctor again to discuss ulcerative colitis treatment and medication options.
Remember, these are not exhaustive lists, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. For complete details about Symbicort Asacol, please refer to Patient Information.
Can Asacol make colitis worse?
Asacol is actually used to treat a type of colitis called ulcerative colitis. It works by reducing inflammation in the colon. In some rare cases, some individuals may experience worsening symptoms while taking Asacol (mesalamine), in which case you need to contact your doctor immediately.
Does Asacol cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a commonly reported side effect of Asacol. However, it is important to note that everyone's response to medication can vary. If you are experiencing hair loss while taking Asacol, it is recommended to consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if it could be related to the medication or if there might be another underlying cause.
Does Asacol cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not typically associated with or listed as a common side effect Asacol. If you are concerned about changes in your weight while taking Asacol, it is best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist. They can evaluate your specific situation and help determine if there might be other factors contributing to the weight gain.
Does Asacol expire?
Yes, medications like Asacol do have an expiration date. The expiration date is typically printed on the packaging or the prescription label. It is important to follow the expiration date and not use Asacol or any medication beyond that date. Expired medications may not be as effective or safe to use. If you have any expired medication, it is recommended to consult with your pharmacist on the proper disposal methods.
How long does Asacol take to work?
The time it takes for Asacol to start working can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting the medication, while others may take longer, with most treatments being completed by 6 weeks. It is important to keep in mind that Asacol is not a medication for immediate relief of symptoms. It works by reducing inflammation over time.