Question 1

What is Apriso?

Accepted Answer

Apriso is a brand-name medication containing the active ingredient mesalamine, which belongs to a group of drugs known as aminosalicylates. It works by affecting substances in the body that cause inflammation, tissue damage, and diarrhea.

This medication helps reduce swelling and irritation in the lining of the large intestine to manage chronic bowel inflammation.

Question 2

What is Apriso used for?

Accepted Answer

Apriso is used to treat ulcerative colitis .

Question 3

How does Apriso work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Apriso contains the active ingredient mesalamine, which is an anti-inflammatory medicine. It works locally in the large intestine (colon) to reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

While the exact way mesalamine works is not fully understood, it is believed to function by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, tissue damage, and diarrhea. By suppressing these substances, the medication helps the lining of the colon heal and stay healthy.

Delayed-Release Delivery

Apriso is designed as a delayed-release capsule. This formulation is important for how the drug works in the body:

Targeted Release: The capsule contains granules that are coated to prevent the medicine from being released too early in the digestive process.

Colon-Specific Action: The coating allows the medication to pass through the stomach and small intestine so that the active ingredient is released primarily once it reaches the colon.

This targeted delivery ensures that the medicine is available exactly where the inflammation occurs, rather than being absorbed entirely into the bloodstream before reaching the affected area.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Apriso?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Apriso is mesalamine .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Apriso?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Apriso may include:

headache

abdominal pain

diarrhea

and others

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Apriso?

Accepted Answer

Apriso belongs to the 5-aminosalicylic acid derivative drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Apriso and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Apriso

Apriso comes as an extended-release capsule that is taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day in the morning. You may take this medication with or without food.

It is important to swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules , as this can interfere with how the medicine is released into your body.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Apriso, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Apriso safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

The effects of mesalamine on an unborn baby are not fully understood. While animal studies have not demonstrated a risk of birth defects or other problems, there is limited information from well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because of this, healthcare providers generally suggest using this medication during pregnancy only when the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of continuing treatment. It is also important to consider that active inflammatory bowel disease can pose its own risks to a pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Mesalamine can pass into breast milk. It is important to consider the following if you are nursing:

Infant side effects: Some nursing infants have been reported to develop diarrhea when the mother is taking mesalamine.

Monitoring: If you are breastfeeding while taking this medication, watch your baby closely for any changes in their bowel habits.

Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the safest way to feed your baby while managing your condition.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Apriso come in?

Accepted Answer

Available Forms

Apriso is available in the following form for oral administration:

Extended-release capsules: These capsules are designed to release the active medication gradually as they pass through the digestive tract.

Generic versions of these extended-release capsules are also available.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Apriso?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Apriso was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for the maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis in adults. Remission refers to the period when the symptoms of the disease are under control or have disappeared. This medication is not currently approved for use in children.

Generic Availability

The FDA has approved generic versions of Apriso. Generic mesalamine extended-release capsules are available and are required to meet the same quality and safety standards as the brand-name product.

Regulatory Requirements

Apriso is not a controlled substance and does not currently require a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. There are no boxed warnings associated with this medication. However, regulatory authorities require that the drug be dispensed with a medication guide to inform patients about potential risks, such as kidney impairment or serious skin reactions.

Question 11

What should I know about Apriso and cost?

Accepted Answer

Generic Availability

A generic version of Apriso, known as mesalamine extended-release capsules, is available. Generic medications contain the same active ingredients as the brand-name version but are typically available at a lower cost.

Insurance and Medicare Coverage

Most private insurance plans and Medicare Part D plans provide coverage for mesalamine. However, the specific out-of-pocket cost depends on the plan's formulary. Brand-name Apriso may be placed in a higher cost-sharing tier than its generic equivalent, leading to higher copays.

Factors Influencing Price

The final price paid at the pharmacy can be affected by various factors:

Pharmacy Choice: Prices may vary between retail pharmacies, and some mail-order services may offer different pricing structures.

Prescription Quantity: Filling a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply may sometimes reduce the overall cost per dose, depending on insurance policies.

Financial Assistance: Some patients may be eligible for manufacturer savings cards or patient assistance programs that help reduce the cost of the brand-name medication.

Apriso

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

Additional Resources

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