Apriso (mesalamine) is a prescription brand-name medication. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it to maintain remission of ulcerative colitis in adults.

The generic form of Apriso is mesalamine. It’s classified as an aminosalicylate.

Apriso comes as an oral capsule.

For information about the dosage of Apriso, including its form, strength, and how to take it, keep reading. For a comprehensive look at Apriso, see this article.

This article describes typical dosages for Apriso provided by the drug’s manufacturer. When taking Apriso, always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Below is information about the approved Apriso dosage for treating ulcerative colitis (UC), as well as the strength and form the drug comes in.

Apriso form

Apriso comes as an oral capsule that’s both extended-release (ER) and delayed-release (DR):

  • ER means the capsules slowly release the drug over time after you take a dose. This helps the drug work for a longer period of time in your body.
  • DR means the capsules pass through your stomach without dissolving. This allows the capsules to reach your colon, where they’re designed to work.

Apriso strength

Apriso capsules are available in one strength: 0.375 grams (g).

Typical dosages

The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for ulcerative colitis

To treat UC in adults, the recommended Apriso dosage is 1.5 g every morning. This means you’ll take four capsules for every dose.

Long-term use

Apriso is meant to be taken as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Apriso is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.

You should take Apriso according to your doctor’s instructions.

Apriso comes as an oral capsule that’s both extended-release (ER) and delayed-release (DR):

  • ER means the capsules slowly release the drug over time after you take a dose. This helps the drug work for a longer period of time in your body.
  • DR means the capsules pass through your stomach without dissolving. This allows the capsules to reach your colon, where they’re designed to work.

Because of the way Apriso capsules are released in your body, you should swallow them whole. Do not crush, open, break, or chew the capsules. If you’re having trouble swallowing Apriso capsules, talk with your doctor or pharmacist or see this article.

You should take Apriso in the morning, and you may take it with or without food.

If you take an antacid, such as calcium carbonate (Tums), it’s important that you don’t take it at the same time as Apriso. Antacids can dissolve Apriso capsules in your stomach. This can prevent Apriso from working as it should or prevent it from working at all.

If you miss a dose of Apriso in the morning, take it as soon as you remember that day. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take more than one dose of Apriso at once. This can increase your risk of developing side effects.

To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

It’s important that you don’t take more Apriso than your doctor recommends. If you take more Apriso than your doctor prescribes, you may develop serious side effects.

Symptoms of an overdose

Symptoms of an Apriso overdose can include:

If you take more than the recommended amount of Apriso

Call your doctor right away if you believe you’ve taken too much Apriso. Another option is to call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.

The dosage in this article is the typical dosage provided by the drug’s manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Apriso for you, they will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you. Always follow the dosage that your doctor prescribes for you.

As with any drug, never change your dosage of Apriso without your doctor’s recommendation. If you have questions about the dosage of Apriso that’s right for you, talk with your doctor.

Besides learning about dosage, you may want other information about Apriso. These additional articles might be helpful to you:

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.