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Asacol tapering??

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 11/30/2009 2:25 PM (GMT 0)
Hello all!! I have been back in remission for about 5 1/2 months now. Before my current remission I was in a flare, not real bad, but nagging. I got it last yr with a sinus infection, and also I think by switching from Asacol to generic Colazal. Before my last falre, I was in remission for about 3 yrs or longer I think. Anyways, I always took 12 asacol a day since I was DX, and I thought I would see if I could taper down to maybe 6 a day. I started 1 1/2 months ago. I went from 12 a day, to 10 a day did that for 2 weeks, then went down to 8 a day for 2 weeks, and now I'm at 6 a day for the last week. Just wondering if this sounds ok? I figure if there is any sign of a flare or anythning I could always up the dose again. Any thought on this?
Posted 11/30/2009 4:22 PM (GMT 0)
It's probably ok. I think quincy takes 6/day for maintenance. Definitely jump back up on the dose if you notice symptoms, though, and then maybe only lower to 8 the next time.

What about rectal meds? Have you given any thought to using them twice weekly while in remission as a maintenance dose? Studies show that people who use them twice weekly stay in addition to oral meds stay in remission for longer than those who only use oral meds.
Posted 11/30/2009 4:42 PM (GMT 0)
I use 6 daily and have only gone up to 8 once in the 20+ years.

You should be on rectal meds....that way,you can probably remain on the lower dosage. Remember what gets inflamed firstly and heals lastly.

When tapering the meds, it should be done by one pill a week..but it seems you're doing OK at this time.

Rectal meds....the magical, amazing, miracle butt extinguisher! But at 231 posts you have, I'm sure you've heard it before.

q
Posted 11/30/2009 5:12 PM (GMT 0)
Yeah i do use recyal meds when I do flare. When I was in remission before, when it was for 3 yrs I never took rectal meds durring remission. After I was dx, I was put on 12 Asacol a day and just did that for about 6 yrs, and was in remission the whole time. Both rowasa and the generic form are not coverd by my ins, and Canasa is not either. But, my GI has told me to NEVER worry about me getting meds, as he would make sure I get them. He has given me 3 months of Asacol last year when I was inbetween insurance, and could not pay the hight cost of Asacol, and he has also given me 90 days worth of Canasa last Christmas. He even drove out and brought it to my house for me. I really love my GI. He's great. As for rectal meds, I do believe they help when in a flare, but as for me, I won't use them as long as I am in remission. I just hope it stays here.
Posted Yesterday 6:49 AM (GMT 0)
Ah yes, I remember that!!!! your GI for sure is awesome!

You must, however.....and I stress this......use the rectal meds at the very first sign of a flare. When you are constipated, consider a flare soon around the corner.

I hope you're also on probiotics and fibre supplements....could help as well.

Yep, you have one awesome GI...

Keep us posted as to how you're doing.
Be well!!

quincy
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