What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the inner lining of the colon and rectum. It's characterized by flare-ups followed by periods of remission that can alternate throughout a lifetime.

Flare-Ups

A flare-up is when the rectum and/or colon become inflamed. During a flare-up, people experience periods of increased symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain or cramping, and an urgent need to go to the bathroom. Flare-ups can vary in duration and intensity.

In clinical studies, Asacol helped reduce rectal bleeding and stool frequency without the use of steroids.

Remission

Remission is the time between flare-ups of ulcerative colitis when people experience few, mild, or no ulcerative colitis symptoms. Periods of remission vary in duration, anywhere from a matter of days to a number of years.

While ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition, it usually can be managed with medication when taken as prescribed by your doctor. This condition affects people of all ages, but often is diagnosed during early adulthood. The causes of ulcerative colitis are unknown, but may involve heredity, the environment, and the immune system. There is no known cure for ulcerative colitis except for removal of the colon. However, research organizations, such as the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), continue to research the cause of and seek a cure for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Treating Flare-ups and Maintaining Remission

Though UC can be unpredictable, medications usually can provide people with a measure of control over this tough, persistent condition. Taking your medication as directed by your doctor is an important part of managing your UC symptoms. And taking your medication, even if you feel fine, can help reduce the risk of a flare-up and help maintain remission.

Asacol is the only sulfa-free 5-ASA medication indicated for both treatment of mild to moderate flare-ups of ulcerative colitis and maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis. In a six-month study, patients taking Asacol at a maintenance dose were more likely to remain in remission as compared to those taking a placebo (sugar pill).