The human digestive tract is an apparently simple double-ended tube, but appearances are deceiving. The gastrointestinal tract is in fact a complex system of diverse cell types, layers of tissue, enzyme secretions, neurons and bacteria with immense potential for malfunction. One particular gastrointestinal disorder with no known etiology is called ulcerative colitis. The disease causes unpleasant symptoms including unpredictable bouts of painful diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Two drugs used to manage the disease are asacol and folic acid supplements.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes painful sores to form in the tissue lining of the large intestine and rectum. The symptoms of the disease are variable, but commonly include bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Other symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include cramping, weight loss, iron deficiency, frequent defecation and achy joints. There is no known cure for ulcerative colitis, but drugs such as asacol can be used to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and its associated side effects.
Asacol
Asacol, or mesalamine, is an anti-inflammatory drug available by prescription in several forms, including delayed and controlled-release tablets, enemas and suppositories. Mesalamine works relatively quickly and generally relieves the symptoms of ulcerative colitis within a few days or weeks of the initial dose. However, you should not discontinue the medication when you feel better, but should complete the therapeutic dose according to your physician's instructions.
Folic Acid
Because of the severe diarrhea associated with ulcerative colitis, affected individuals may develop vitamin and mineral deficiencies and become malnourished. Supplements, such as folic acid, may be given to curb nutritional deficits. Folic acid belongs to the B vitamin group and is particularly important for pregnant women, as it helps prevent fetal spinal and neurological defects. If you have ulcerative colitis, ask your physician before taking a folic acid supplement, particularly if you are pregnant or are planning to conceive.
Precautions
As with all medications, asacol and folic acid have associated risks. If you experience any of the following severe side effects associated with asacol use, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately: black stools, chest pain, bloody vomit, vomit with the appearance of coffee grounds, bloody urine, shortness of breath, irregular urination, mental confusion or tissue swelling. Severe side effects associated with folic acid include shortness of breath, skin rash, itching and redness of the skin.
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