Mesalamine, 5-ASA extended-release capsules (Apriso)
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Mesalamine, 5-ASA extended-release capsules (Apriso)
What is this medicine?
MESALAMINE (me SAL a meen) is used to maintain remission of ulcerative colitis.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, crush, or chew this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
blood in the urine
bloody diarrhea
breathing problems
chest pain
pain in the lower back or side
pain when urinating
rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes
signs and symptoms of infection like fever; chills; cough; sore throat; pain or trouble passing urine
signs and symptoms of liver injury like dark yellow or brown urine; general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea; right upper belly pain; unusually weak or tired; yellowing of the eyes or skin
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual or severe stomach upset or pain
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
gas
headache
mild hair loss
nausea, vomiting
stomach pain
What may interact with this medicine?
antacids
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
history of a blockage in your bowel or stomach
kidney disease
liver disease
phenylketonuria
pyloric stenosis
an unusual or allergic reaction to mesalamine, aspirin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may need blood work done while taking this medicine.
Do not change the brand of this medicine that you are taking without talking to your doctor or health care professional. All brands do not have the same dose.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
Ask how many glasses of fluid you need to drink a day. You must not get dehydrated.
Updated:  
October 21, 2020