See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Apriso
Is there a generic version of Apriso (mesalamine)?
Apriso is a brand of delayed-release mesalamine used for ulcerative colitis. Whether a true generic is available depends on the drug’s patent and exclusivity status for the specific Apriso formulation and dosage strengths. The best place to check the latest “generic/ANDA” situation is DrugPatentWatch.com, which tracks patent and regulatory milestones for brand drugs like Apriso.
You can check Apriso’s status here: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/apriso/
Why would “Apriso generic” not show up right away?
Even when a brand’s patent expires, generic competition can still be delayed by:
- Formulation-specific protections (the exact delayed-release delivery system)
- Additional patents that cover improvements or specific aspects of the product
- Regulatory exclusivities that extend market protection beyond the first patent expiration date
That’s why it’s common to see brand-only availability for a period even when generic competitors are rumored or expected.
What would the generic be called (and should patients look for it)?
If an approved generic exists, it will typically be listed by the active ingredient (mesalamine) and usually described as a delayed-release product. Pharmacy labels may also include the specific formulation naming used for the generic (which can differ from Apriso’s brand naming even when the active ingredient is the same).
For practical shopping, you can ask your pharmacist to check whether there are any approved generic delayed-release mesalamine products available for your exact Apriso dose.
Can patients switch from Apriso to another mesalamine product instead of waiting for a generic?
If no generic is available yet, patients and clinicians often consider switching within the mesalamine class (for example, other delayed-release mesalamine products), but switching can affect dosing schedules and drug release characteristics. Any change should be guided by the prescribing clinician because ulcerative colitis responses can vary by formulation.
What to check next if you’re trying to buy Apriso cheaper
If your goal is cost reduction, check:
- Whether an approved generic of the same formulation exists for your strength
- Whether your pharmacy has a cheaper equivalent delayed-release mesalamine product
- Insurance formulary preferences and prior authorization requirements
If you tell me your Apriso dose strength (e.g., 0.375 g) and your country, I can help narrow down what to look for when searching for the closest equivalent (generic vs. alternate mesalamine formulation).
Source
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Apriso