Indications 

Apriso is a prescribed medication used in adults with ulcerative colitis to keep their symptoms under control and prevent them from recurring. 

As an aminosalicylate, Apriso is thought to mitigate inflammation and irritation in the colon, although its precise mechanism of action remains unclear. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Apriso and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. For questions or clarifications, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Apriso is typically taken once a day as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake.  

The capsule must be ingested whole without opening, chewing, or breaking it. Adequate fluid intake is also recommended during treatment to help prevent kidney stones. 

For optimal results, take Apriso regularly, around the same time(s) daily, exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more frequently than prescribed.  

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Apriso. If any of these side effects last or worsen, tell your doctor right away. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Stomach pain 
• Diarrhea 
• Indigestion 
• Gas 
• Headache 
• Rash 
• Abnormal liver function test 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe stomach pain, stomach cramping, bloody diarrhea 
• Fever, headache, general ill feeling 
• Rash, itching, eye redness 
• Bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds 
• Signs of low white blood cell counts: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Mouth sores 
  • Skin sores 
  • Sore throat 
  • Cough 
  • Feeling light-headed 
  • Trouble breathing 
• Signs of a kidney stone: 
  • Severe pain in your side and back 
  • Frequent need to urinate 
  • Foul-smelling urine 
  • Dark or cloudy urine 
• Indication of kidney problems: 
  • Increased or decreased urination 
  • Swelling 
  • Weight gain 
• Indication of liver problems: 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upper stomach pain 
  • Tiredness 
  • Easy bruising or bleeding 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Stop taking Apriso and call your doctor right away, if you experience any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you exhibit signs of an allergic reaction to Apriso, including: 

• Fever 
• Swollen lymph nodes 
• Rash 
• Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Apriso. If you notice other effects not listed above, notify your doctor promptly.  

Cautions 

Before taking Apriso, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to: 

• Mesalamine 
• Other aminosalicylates such as balsalazide and olsalazine 
• Salicylates such as aspirin and salsalate 
• Sulfasalazine 
• Other medicines 
• Any ingredients present in Apriso capsules 

Apriso may contain aspartame, and individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) or other conditions that require restrictions or avoidance of aspartame (or phenylalanine) in their diet should consult their doctor or pharmacist for safe use of this medication. 

To ensure Apriso is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Stomach blockage such as pyloric stenosis 

Apriso may interact with other medications. To mitigate the risk of drug interactions, inform your physician and pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Balsalazide, olsalazine, and sulfasalazine have similar properties to Apriso. Avoid concurrent use of Apriso and medications containing the mentioned substances. 

Consult your doctor for guidance before using an antacid and adhere to the specific type recommended by your doctor. Certain antacids may impede the absorption of Apriso by your body. 

Apriso can potentially impact the accuracy of specific laboratory tests, such as urine normetanephrine levels, leading to potential false results. Inform laboratory personnel and all healthcare providers of your use of this medication. 

Apriso can increase sun sensitivity, particularly in individuals with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or eczema. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and wear protective clothing with sunscreen when outdoors. If sunburn or skin blisters/redness occur, promptly inform your healthcare provider. 

Pregnant women should only take Apriso when clearly needed. The risks and benefits of this medication should be discussed with a healthcare professional prior to intake. 

Breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider first before taking Apriso, as mesalamine can be transferred into breast milk and may cause undesirable effects on the nursing infant.