Mesalamine is available in the form of extended-release capsules which release the medication slowly throughout the digestive system. Apriso capsules are designed to be taken by mouth, with or without food, 2 to 4 times a day by adults and twice a day by children, preferably in the morning and afternoon. Swallow the capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.
To ensure that you are taking mesalamine safely and effectively, carefully follow the directions on your prescription label. If there are any parts of the instructions that you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain them to you. Take mesalamine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, without taking more or less of it, or taking it more frequently than directed. Even if you feel better at the beginning of your treatment, continue taking mesalamine until you have finished the entire prescription. Do not stop taking mesalamine without consulting your doctor.
The dosage of mesalamine varies depending on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s age, weight, and medical history. Consult a doctor to determine the appropriate dosage for each individual case. However, some general dosing information based on available sources are listed below:
- For adults with ulcerative colitis: 1600 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in 2 to 4 divided doses.
- For children with ulcerative colitis: A doctor must determine use and dose.
- For induction of remission in adult patients with mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis: 2.4 g to 4.8 g per day, taken in 2 to 4 divided doses
- For maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis: Dosage ranges from 1.5 to 4.8 g per day and should be determined by a doctor based on weight.
- For mesalamine rectal suppositories in adults: 1000 mg administered rectally once daily at bedtime for 3 to 6 weeks.
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