Delzicol vs Asacol: A Comparative Look
Asacol, which has been discontinued in the US, has been replaced by Delzicol. On the flip side, if you’re in Europe, you can still find Asacol readily available, as it is still produced and sold in that region.
What is Delzicol?
Doctors may recommend Delzicol for individuals suffering from mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis.
Delzicol contains Mesalamine, also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid or 5-ASA. This medication is widely utilized to manage this specific type of ulcerative colitis.
In clinical trials, Delzicol helped reduce symptoms in patients aged five and older with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis. Moreover, it was effective in maintaining remission in adults with the same condition.
“Remission” indicates that there was minimal or no inflammation in the patient’s colon, as determined by specific diagnostic criteria at the start of the study and six months later.
Delzicol Side Effects
Common side effects of Delzicol can include:
- Inflammation of the nose and throat
- Headache
- Stomachache
- Dizziness
- Inflammation of the sinuses
- Rash
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Increased lipase
Delzicol Risk Information
Avoid taking Delzicol if you:
- Are allergic to salicylates or aminosalicylates (e.g., aspirin or medications containing aspirin)
- Are allergic to any ingredient in Delzicol
Consult your doctor before taking Delzicol if you:
- Have experienced renal issues
- Are allergic to sulfasalazine
- Have or have had allergic reactions affecting the heart, such as myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart’s lining)
- Take any supplements containing iron
- Have liver issues
- Have or have had a gastrointestinal obstruction
- Are breastfeeding, planning to breastfeed, or are pregnant
- Have any additional medical conditions
What is Asacol?
Asacol is an anti-inflammatory medication used to treat various bowel diseases, including proctitis, proctosigmoiditis, and ulcerative colitis.
Its active ingredient is Mesalamine, which falls under the class of drugs known as aminosalicylates.
Asacol is administered orally in the form of delayed-release tablets. These tablets are designed to release the medication once they reach the intestines.
Asacol Side Effects
Possible side effects of Asacol may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Cold symptoms (runny nose, sore throat)
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Gas
- Influenza
- Fever
- Cough
Many of these minor side effects may subside within a few days to a few weeks. However, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist if they persist or hinder your daily activities.