Pooping out my pills

[RZman]

I recently switched from Asacol 400 mg tabs to 800mg tabs. The reason I changed is because they no longer make Asacol 400mg. The 800 mg tabs are huge; at least 3 times larger then the 400 mg. The new pills are passing through my system whole. It says on the bottle "Swallow Whole. Do Not Crush Or Chew". Does this mean that I can't cut them in half with a pill cutter? Any advise is appreciated.

 

[CLynn]

I could be wrong, but I thought Asacol's information papers said to let your doctor know if you were passing them in your stool, as that meant that were not being absorbed and thus, not going to be as effective as you need. Anyone else know?

 

[David]

Clynn is correct, definitely let your doctor know. I know this may sound gross, but try and fish one of the pills out. I say this because you need to see if the medication is still in the capsule or not. If enough of the capsule was broken down so the medication could exit, then it will likely be fine. But if the medication is still in the capsule, then there's a problem.

 

[RZman]

Thanks Clynn and David. I already know it's not being absorbed. Also, the pills are completely whole. It's definitely a problem because I cannot tolerate Sulfasalazine (the alternative to Asacol). I sent an email to my doctor & I'm hoping to hear back today. My question is; can I cut them in half?

 

[David]

No, don't cut it in half.

I notice you are on Entocort. So I assume you have small bowel disease. Do you also have disease in your colon?

 

[RZman]

David, I'm not sure. I'm flaring too much for a colonoscopy. The last time I flared (8-9 years ago) it was in my colon so the doctor is assuming. I switched from Entocort to Uceris last week and it's making a big difference. Uceris is basically slow release Entocort.

Just a footnote: I spoke with my doctor. He said it's ok to cut them in half.

 

[CLynn]

By the way, love the avi pic.....I so remember that show!