Is Apriso still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Mesalamine ER availability, pricing, and what you can do to get your prescription filled.
If your pharmacy has told you they can't fill your Apriso prescription, you're probably wondering: is there an actual shortage? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no — and understanding the full picture can help you take the right steps to get your medication.
This article covers the latest on Apriso availability in 2026, why the drug has been hard to find, what it costs, and what options you have right now.
As of early 2026, Apriso (Mesalamine extended-release capsules) is not listed as an active shortage on the FDA's drug shortage database or the ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) shortage tracker. That means there's no official, nationwide supply disruption.
But here's the catch: just because there's no formal shortage doesn't mean it's easy to find. Many patients continue to report that their local pharmacy is out of stock or unable to order Apriso. This disconnect between official shortage listings and real-world availability is a common frustration for patients with chronic conditions.
The reasons for this gap include:
Several factors have contributed to difficulty finding Apriso over the past few years:
Since generic Mesalamine ER became available, many pharmacies have shifted their inventory to stock only the generic version. If your prescription is written for brand-name Apriso specifically, or if your insurance requires the brand, you may find it's simply not on shelves anymore at most locations.
The pharmaceutical supply chain has faced persistent challenges, including raw material sourcing difficulties, manufacturing capacity constraints, and transportation disruptions. These issues affect many medications, and specialty drugs like Apriso are particularly vulnerable because they have a smaller patient base than blockbuster drugs.
Many insurance plans have implemented step therapy requirements or prior authorization for Mesalamine products, especially brand-name versions. This can create the impression of a shortage when the real issue is an administrative delay between your prescription and the pharmacy being able to dispense it.
For a deeper dive into these issues, read: Why is Apriso so hard to find?
The cost of Apriso varies significantly depending on whether you're paying for brand or generic, and whether you have insurance:
The takeaway: always ask about the generic and always use a coupon card if you're paying out of pocket. The savings are dramatic — potentially over $400 per month.
For a complete savings guide, read: How to save money on Apriso in 2026.
The landscape for ulcerative colitis treatment continues to evolve. Here's what's new in 2026:
The good news is that generic Mesalamine ER is now well-established in the market. Multiple generic manufacturers produce the 0.375 g extended-release capsule, which means competition has driven prices down and availability up. If you haven't tried the generic yet, now is a great time to ask your doctor about switching.
If Apriso or its generic isn't available, several other Mesalamine products can serve as alternatives:
Learn more about each option: Alternatives to Apriso if you can't fill your prescription.
If you need a new prescription or want to discuss switching formulations, telehealth makes it easier than ever. Many gastroenterologists and primary care providers now offer virtual visits where they can adjust your prescription without an in-office appointment. See: How to find a doctor who can prescribe Apriso.
Here are the most effective steps you can take today:
For more detailed tips, see our guide: How to find Apriso in stock near you.
If you've been unable to get your Apriso filled and you've missed doses, here's what you need to know:
The Apriso situation in 2026 is less about a formal drug shortage and more about the shifting landscape of generic availability, pharmacy stocking practices, and insurance policies. The medication — whether brand or generic — is being manufactured and distributed, but finding it at your particular pharmacy can still be a challenge.
Your best tools are Medfinder for real-time availability, a willingness to try the generic or alternative pharmacies, and open communication with your doctor about backup options. Ulcerative colitis management depends on consistent medication use, so don't let pharmacy availability derail your treatment plan.
Want to understand your medication better? Read: What is Apriso? Uses, dosage, and what you need to know.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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