Generic Asacol

Introduction

Asacol is a medication prescribed for the long‑term management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the United Kingdom. Its active compound is mesalamine, a 5‑aminosalicylic acid (5‑ASA) derivative that belongs to the gastro‑health therapeutic group. Although classified under the broader “Antibacterial” label for regulatory purposes, Asacol’s primary action is anti‑inflammatory rather than antimicrobial. The product is manufactured by a multinational pharmaceutical company that holds a Marketing Authorisation Licence (MAL) granted by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). In clinical practice Asacol is used to maintain remission of ulcerative colitis and to induce remission in mild‑to‑moderate disease, offering patients an oral option that targets the colon directly.

What is Asacol?

Asacol is an oral tablet formulation of mesalamine, marketed as a delayed‑release preparation that delivers the active drug throughout the large intestine. The tablet is coated with a pH‑dependent polymer that dissolves at pH ≥ 7, ensuring release in the terminal ileum and colon while minimising exposure in the stomach and proximal small bowel. Asacol was developed in the early 200s as a colon‑targeted therapy for ulcerative colitis and has been approved throughout the European Union, including the UK. The manufacturer is a well‑established global pharmaceutical firm, and the product is listed on the NHS drug database under the trade name Asacol.

Well‑known mesalamine brand names that share the same active ingredient include Apriso, Lialda, Pentasa, and Salofalk. These alternatives differ mainly in their delivery system and dosing frequency, but clinical efficacy is comparable when used according to prescribing information.

How Asacol Works

Mesalamine exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes within the colonic mucosa. The drug blocks the cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase pathways, reducing the synthesis of cytokines (e.g., interleukin‑1β, tumour necrosis factor‑α) that drive the chronic inflammation of ulcerative colitis. Additionally, mesalamine scavenges reactive oxygen species, limiting oxidative tissue damage.

Because the Asacol tablet releases mesalamine only after reaching the higher pH of the colon, the drug achieves high local concentrations at the site of disease while systemic exposure remains low. Onset of symptom relief typically occurs within 2–4 weeks of consistent dosing, reflecting the time needed for mucosal healing. The drug’s elimination half‑life is approximately 8–12 hours, and unchanged mesalamine is excreted primarily via the kidneys.

Conditions Treated with Asacol

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) – the only indication formally approved by the MHRA. In the UK, approximately 150,000 people are diagnosed with UC, and maintenance therapy is essential to prevent relapse. Asacol is suitable for both induction of remission in mild‑to‑moderate active disease and for long‑term maintenance.
• Crohn’s disease involving the colon – while not officially licensed for Crohn’s disease, clinicians sometimes prescribe mesalamine formulations off‑label for colonic involvement when inflammation is limited to the large bowel. Evidence for efficacy is modest and typically reserved for patients who cannot tolerate immunosuppressants.

The drug is not indicated for acute severe colitis, fulminant disease, or extra‑intestinal manifestations of IBD, where systemic steroids or biologics are required.

Who is Asacol For?

Patients who have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and require a medication that acts locally within the colon are primary candidates for Asacol therapy. The drug is most beneficial for:

• Adults with mild‑to‑moderate ulcerative colitis who have achieved initial remission with corticosteroids or who are steroid‑dependent and need a safer maintenance option.
• Individuals seeking a non‑systemic therapy that minimises the risk of infections, osteoporosis, and other systemic side‑effects associated with immunosuppressants.
• Patients who prefer oral administration over rectal enemas or suppositories, especially when disease distribution is extensive throughout the colon.

Contra‑indications include known hypersensitivity to mesalamine or any component of the tablet coating, severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), and a history of hypersensitivity pneumonitis triggered by 5‑ASA agents. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use Asacol only if the potential benefit outweighs the possible risk, after discussion with a specialist.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Headache – usually mild and transient, may resolve without intervention.
• Nausea or abdominal discomfort – often improves after the first week of therapy.
• Flatulence – related to colonic release of mesalamine; dietary modification can help.

Rare

• Pancreatitis – presents with epigastric pain and elevated serum amylase; immediate medical review required.
• Interstitial nephritis – characterised by rising serum creatinine; renal function should be monitored every 3–6 months.
• Photosensitivity – increased skin reaction to sunlight; patients should use sunscreen when outdoors.

Serious

• Severe allergic reactions – including rash, angioedema, or anaphylaxis; discontinue immediately and seek emergency care.
• Acute renal failure – rapid decline in kidney function; may be irreversible if not identified early.
• Cardiopulmonary toxicity – rare cases of myocarditis or eosinophilic pneumonia have been reported; any new chest pain or dyspnoea warrants urgent investigation.

Drug‑Drug Interactions

• Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium – may affect tablet disintegration, reducing efficacy.
• Azathioprine and 6‑mercaptopurine – concurrent use can increase the risk of bone‑marrow suppression.
• NSAIDs – additive nephrotoxicity, especially in patients with existing renal impairment.
• Warfarin – mesalamine may potentiate anticoagulant effect; INR monitoring is advisable if co‑administered.

Patients should always disclose all current medications, including over‑the‑counter supplements, to their healthcare provider before starting Asacol.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard adult dosing for ulcerative colitis maintenance is 1.2 g (four 300 mg tablets) taken once daily, preferably with the evening meal to align with colonic pH patterns. For induction of remission, the dose may be increased to 2.4 g per day (eight 300 mg tablets) divided into two doses (morning and evening) for the first 4–8 weeks, then tapered to the maintenance dose.

If a dose is forgotten, patients should take it as soon as they remember provided it is more than 12 hours before the next scheduled dose. If the next dose is due soon, the missed tablet should be omitted to avoid double dosing.

In the event of an overdose (e.g., ingestion of more than 4 g within 24 hours), symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Management is supportive: gastric lavage is rarely indicated because mesalamine is minimally absorbed; activated charcoal may be considered if presentation is within one hour. Prompt medical evaluation is essential, especially for patients with pre‑existing renal disease.

Food does not significantly affect the delayed‑release mechanism, but tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Alcohol consumption does not interfere with drug release but may exacerbate gastrointestinal irritation in sensitive individuals. Patients with hepatic disease do not require dose adjustment, whereas those with severe renal dysfunction may need reduced dosing or close monitoring.

Buying Asacol from Our Online Pharmacy

Asacol can be obtained safely from our online pharmacy in the UK. Our service offers the following advantages:

• Affordable pricing – we source the medication at near‑manufacturer cost, reducing the financial burden for patients who are paying privately or who have limited NHS coverage.
• Verified quality – all batches are supplied by MHRA‑licensed overseas pharmacies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards; each parcel is accompanied by a certificate of analysis.
• Guaranteed delivery – discreet packaging is dispatched via a 7‑day express service for urgent needs or a regular airmail route that typically arrives within 2–3 weeks. Tracking information is provided for every order.
• Online‑only access – our pharmacy broker model enables patients to obtain international formulations that may not be stocked locally, while maintaining strict privacy protocols.

We operate as a pharmacy broker service, partnering with licensed overseas suppliers to bring high‑quality, cost‑effective generic mesalamine to UK residents. The discreet delivery method respects patient confidentiality and meets the needs of those who prefer an alternative to conventional brick‑and‑mortar pharmacies.

FAQ

• Can Asacol be taken with other ulcerative colitis medications?
  Yes, Asacol is often combined with topical 5‑ASA preparations, probiotics, or low‑dose steroids during the induction phase. Concomitant use with immunomodulators should be monitored for additive adverse effects, particularly renal impairment.

• Does Asacol require any special storage conditions?
  The tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature, between 20 °C and 25 °C (68 °F–77 °F). They must be kept in the original blister pack, protected from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight to preserve the pH‑dependent coating.

• What does the tablet look like and how can I identify it?
  Asacol tablets are round, film‑coated, and typically white to off‑white. Each tablet is imprinted with the dosage strength (e.g., “300 mg”) and the manufacturer’s logo. The delayed‑release coating gives the tablet a slightly glossy appearance.

• Are there differences between Asacol formulations sold in the UK and those sold elsewhere?
  The core active ingredient, mesalamine, is identical worldwide, but the polymer coating may vary slightly to meet regional regulatory specifications. These variations do not affect clinical efficacy when the dosage is equivalent.

• Can I travel internationally with Asacol, and are there any customs considerations?
  Yes, Asacol may be taken on international trips. Carry a copy of the prescription or a doctor’s letter, and declare the medication at customs if required. The UK allows personal import of up to three months’ supply for personal use under the “personal importation” scheme.

• Will Asacol interfere with drug testing for employment or sports?
  Mesalamine is not listed on standard occupational drug‑screening panels and does not contain prohibited substances for most sporting organisations. However, athletes should verify with their governing body’s medication list.

• How long has mesalamine been used for ulcerative colitis?
  The therapeutic use of 5‑ASA compounds dates back to the 197s, with the first delayed‑release formulation (including Asacol) receiving regulatory approval in the early 199s. Large‑scale clinical trials in the 199s and 200s established its efficacy for both induction and maintenance of remission.

• Is there any evidence that Asacol reduces the risk of colorectal cancer in ulcerative colitis?
  Long‑term remission achieved with mesalamine, including Asacol, is associated with lower inflammatory burden, which indirectly lowers the risk of dysplasia and colorectal cancer. However, regular surveillance colonoscopy remains the primary preventive strategy.

• What are the inactive ingredients in Asacol tablets?
  In addition to mesalamine, the tablet contains a pH‑dependent polymer matrix (Eudragit S), microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, and magnesium stearate. Patients with lactose intolerance should discuss alternatives with their clinician.

• Can Asacol be used in paediatric patients?
  Asacol is licensed for adult use only. Paediatric formulations of mesalamine, such as oral suspension or paediatric‑specific tablets, are available under different brand names and dosing regimens.

• Is Asacol safe for patients with a history of asthma?
  Asthmatic patients should be monitored closely, as rare cases of bronchospasm have been reported with 5‑ASA agents. If respiratory symptoms develop after starting Asacol, medical evaluation is warranted.

• Does taking Asacol affect vaccination efficacy?
  Because Asacol is minimally systemic, it does not significantly impair immune response to vaccines. Nonetheless, live vaccines should be administered before initiating any immunosuppressive therapy for IBD.

• Can I switch from another mesalamine brand to Asacol without a wash‑out period?
  Direct switching is generally safe; however, clinicians may recommend a brief overlap or monitoring period to ensure therapeutic continuity and to observe for any formulation‑related tolerability issues.

• What should I do if I experience a severe rash while on Asacol?
  A severe or spreading rash may signal an allergic reaction. Discontinue the medication immediately and seek urgent medical care. Documentation of the reaction is essential for future treatment planning.

Glossary

5‑ASA (5‑Aminosalicylic Acid)

A class of anti‑inflammatory compounds that includes mesalamine; they act locally in the gastrointestinal tract to reduce inflammation.

Delayed‑Release (Enteric‑Coated) Tablet

A dosage form designed to resist dissolution in the stomach and dissolve at a higher pH, usually in the small intestine or colon, to target drug release.

eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)

A calculated measure of kidney function that estimates how much blood the kidneys filter each minute; important for dosing adjustments of renally excreted drugs.

Interstitial Nephritis

An inflammatory condition of the kidney interstitium that can be drug‑induced; presents with rising creatinine and may be reversible if identified early.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Asacol is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Asacol for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.