Pentasa XR Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

If you take Pentasa XR (mesalamine extended-release capsules) for ulcerative colitis and have been struggling to get your prescription filled, you're dealing with an official drug shortage. Here is everything you need to know about the current status, what's causing it, and what your options are in 2026.

Current Shortage Status (Updated 2026)

As of March 2026, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) officially lists mesalamine extended-release capsules (generic for Pentasa XR) as an active drug shortage. The key facts:

• Shortage created: January 30, 2026 (ASHP bulletin)
• Last updated: March 24, 2026
• Affected product: Sun Pharma mesalamine ER 500 mg capsules (120-count bottles) on back order — no estimated resupply date
• Brand status: Pentasa brand (Takeda Pharmaceuticals, 500 mg, 120-count bottles) remains listed; may be available at some pharmacies but insurance access can be complicated

What Caused the Pentasa XR Shortage?

The immediate cause is a manufacturing back order from Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, one of the primary producers of generic mesalamine ER 500 mg capsules. When a major generic manufacturer pulls back — even temporarily — it affects supply across the entire country.

Deeper factors contributing to the shortage:

• Limited number of approved generic manufacturers for mesalamine ER, leaving the market fragile
• API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) sourcing constraints — mesalamine manufacturing relies on specific chemical precursors that can face supply chain disruptions
• Pentasa XR is a relatively niche product compared to blockbuster drugs — manufacturers have less economic incentive to aggressively resolve shortages quickly
• Insurance step therapy requirements mean some patients can't easily pivot to the brand-name Pentasa even when it's available

What Does the Shortage Mean for Your Treatment?

Missing doses of mesalamine can trigger a flare-up of ulcerative colitis. Don't wait until you've run out of medication to take action. Mesalamine is a maintenance medication — meaning it works best when taken consistently. Even a few missed doses can disrupt the remission you've worked to maintain.

What Should Patients Do Right Now?

Take these steps immediately if you're at risk of running out:

1. Search for in-stock locations: Use medfinder.com to find pharmacies near you that have Pentasa XR in stock.
2. Ask about the 250 mg capsule: If the 500 mg capsule is unavailable, four 250 mg capsules provide the same 1 gram dose. Ask your pharmacist if 250 mg is in stock.
3. Contact your gastroenterologist now: Alert your doctor to the shortage so they can proactively adjust your prescription or issue a prior authorization for brand-name Pentasa.
4. Explore alternatives: Discuss therapeutic alternatives with your doctor. Read: Alternatives to Pentasa XR
5. Ask your insurer for a shortage exception: During an FDA-documented shortage, many insurers will expedite prior authorization for the brand-name product. Call your insurance company directly and reference the ASHP shortage bulletin.

Will the Shortage Resolve in 2026?

As of the most recent ASHP update, no estimated resolution date has been provided by Sun Pharma. Drug shortage timelines are notoriously difficult to predict. Some manufacturing back orders resolve in weeks; others stretch for many months or even years. The FDA's drug shortage list and ASHP's tracker are the best sources for up-to-date information.

The most important thing is not to wait passively. Be proactive, communicate with your prescriber, and use the tools available to you.