New Suppositories and Change of Dosage

Hi all

I've been completely stable with my UC symptoms over the last few years. Meds are Mesalazine 2.4g orally per day, and 500mg rectally 1-2 times a week. I'm symptom-free, but if I miss a few doses, I'll feel the inflammation.

I had a large stash of suppositories (Asacol, 500mg) but have been running a little low, so thought I'd get a refill. However, for whatever reason, the pharmacy told me that 500mg suppositories were no longer available. They weren't able to dispense without speaking to my GP, who eventually found another option for them to use.

Long story short, I've been given 1g suppositories. I tried one last night, thinking it would be good to check for any unexpected side-effects with a weekend the next day.

Today I was fine, but have started experiencing occasional 'spasms' around the rectal area. They are slightly painful, but are otherwise not causing any distress.

The active ingredient in my previous (Asacol) suppositories is listed as "mesalazinum 500mg" while the current suppositories (Pentasa) is listed as "mesalazine 1000mg". As far as I can tell, it's the same ingredient, just a higher dosage. They are a totally different shape, so it might just be a physical thing.

Would an increase in dosage cause this, or am I just being paranoid?

I wouldnt think the increased dosage would do that. I bet it is the different shape. Maybe see if it continues to happen. Keep an eye on it.

Thanks for the replies everyone. I've settled down again and had another supp a couple of nights ago, without any unexpected issues. Glad it wasn't something to be alarmed about.