Apriso (Mesalamine)

Prescription medicineOnly Available By Prescription

Top brand choice

Strength Pack Size Qty
Strength
0.375g
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Top Generic choice

Strength Pack Size Qty
Strength
0.375g
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What if I find a lower price with another pharmacy?

We guarantee the lowest price on all of our prescription products. If you find your medications cheaper at any other recognized licensed mail order pharmacy, we will not only match their price, we will beat it by 25% of the difference. It is our 125% price match guarantee!

Example: If you find a product on Canada Drugs Direct for $50.00 and find the same product for $40.00 at another mail order pharmacy, we will provide you with a $12.50 discount, bringing your total to $37.50.

To get the discount please make sure to mention the price match to the customer service team when they call to collect payment for your order. Or call toll free at 1-888-904-8467 to place the order through the phone.

Terms & Conditions of Program

  • Guaranteed lowest price is only valid at the time of sale.
  • We will only match the current advertised price.
  • Products must be identical and in stock at the time of placing an order with a licensed mail order pharmacy. They must be an online Canadian pharmacy with an address in Canada.
  • Products must be authentic in brand and size (same manufacturer, same country of manufacture, same pack size, same strength and same quantity).
  • Products must be new. We cannot match the price of any used, short expiry or expired product.
  • Price match can only be issued over the phone with our customer service team. Please note at this time we cannot offer price matching for the products Ozempic or Saxenda.
What is a Generic Drug?

A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.

Description

Apriso is a brand name for a medicine called Mesalamine, which helps reduce inflammation in the body. It's approved to manage ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition that causes swelling in the intestines. Apriso works by targeting the inner lining of the colon to lessen inflammation and control symptoms like pain and discomfort. The capsules are specially made to release the medicine slowly over time, allowing it to work effectively in the colon for a longer period.

Directions

When taking Apriso, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions. The usual Apriso dosage is four capsules of 0.375 grams taken by mouth once a day in the morning. It can be taken with or without food. Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking the capsules—these should be swallowed whole to ensure the proper release of medication in the colon. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Don’t take two doses at once if you miss one.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Apriso is Mesalamine.

Contraindications

Avoid taking this medication if any of the following apply:

  • Known hypersensitivity to salicylates or aminosalicylates
  • Allergic reactions to any of Apriso's components

Cautions

  • Before starting treatment with Apriso, make sure to inform your healthcare provider about:
    • Any existing health conditions
    • Any allergies
    • A list of all medications you are currently taking
    • Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Apriso can cause kidney problems such as interstitial nephritis or kidney failure. Your doctor will check your kidney function before starting treatment and regularly during therapy. Let your doctor know if you have a history of kidney problems or are taking medications that affect the kidneys.
  • Some people may experience a reaction similar to a flare-up of ulcerative colitis, with symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, and bloody diarrhea. If these symptoms occur, along with fever, rash, or headache, stop taking Apriso and contact your doctor immediately.
  • Apriso has been linked to liver failure in people with existing liver problems. If you have liver issues, your doctor will weigh the risks before prescribing this medication. Report any signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, to your doctor.
  • Apriso may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, especially if you have conditions like eczema. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure while taking this medication.
  • In rare cases, Apriso may cause kidney stones made of Mesalamine, which might not show up on regular imaging tests. Drinking plenty of fluids can help reduce this risk.
  • Apriso contains phenylalanine, which can be harmful to individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU). Inform your doctor if you have PKU, as the amount of phenylalanine in Apriso needs to be considered alongside other sources in your diet.
  • Apriso can affect certain lab test results, particularly those measuring urinary normetanephrine. Tell your healthcare provider and the lab if you’re taking Apriso to avoid inaccurate results.

Side Effects

The most common Apriso side effects include headache, diarrhea, and upper abdominal or stomach pain. Nausea and nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages) were also reported during clinical trials. These side effects are generally mild and may improve with continued use.

Apriso may cause more serious side effects such as kidney problems, liver abnormalities, and severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Other rare but serious side effects may include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), and allergic reactions. If you notice symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe rash, or difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

References

  1. Apriso (Mesalamine) Product Monograph. Bridgewater, NJ: Salix Pharmaceuticals; 2023.
  2. Apriso (Mesalamine) Drug Label Information. Bridgewater, NJ: Salix Pharmaceuticals; 2023.


IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.

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