Pills in my faeces (Asacol)

[jonnyb]

Hi there,

I've just joined the forum :thumright: Sorry to start off so graphic..but earlier on I went to the toilet and pooped out two Asacol tablets which were fully in tact and looked like I'd just taken them out the bottle!

I've been on Asacol now for a month, taking them three times a day, and then two days ago started a 40mg dose of Prednisone. Has this ever happened to anyone else before? Should I be worried?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated,

Thanks so much,

Jonny.

 

[Emily]

I haven't taken Asacol before but I know for sure that many people on this forum have experienced this. It is pretty much normal, although I personally couldnt tell you why. I know others here who take it can explain it better!

 

[Feather]

Asacol pills have a special coating on the outside that controls the release of the medication until it gets far into your bowel (I think the targeted release is around the ileum and colon area). Sometimes the outer "shell" appears in stool. I've been taking Asacol for 8 years, and I occasionally see the casing, but not too often. If you continue to see the pills in your stool, I'd give your GI a call, because it might be a sign of improper absorption (nothing too serious to worry about, though, so don't lose sleep over it). Good luck!

 

[jonnyb]

Thanks so much guys. It was almost like the pill had come out in its original form, I had a closer inspection and the contents was still inside the outer casing. My stomach has been spasming and popping more than ever today so was a bit concerned. When is the best time to take asacol do you know? Sometimes I take it before meals, other times I take it afterward. I'm not sure if this affects it all? Thanks

 

[GUTsy girl]

I also see the casing sometimes. If you are not absorbing any of the medication, because it is going right thru you, I think you should set an appt to see your GI.