Xermelo (telotristat ethyl) is a prescription oral tablet that’s used to treat diarrhea in adults with carcinoid syndrome. It’s usually taken three times per day.

Xermelo is prescribed to adults with carcinoid syndrome to treat diarrhea that hasn’t responded well to prior treatment.

Xermelo belongs to a group of drugs called tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitors. Xermelo is usually prescribed together with a somatostatin analog, such as Sandostatin (octreotide acetate). Both types of drugs slow down or stop the production of the hormone serotonin.

The active ingredient in Xermelo is telotristat ethyl. An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.

This article describes the dosage of Xermelo, as well as its strength and how to take it. To learn more about Xermelo, see this in-depth article.

This section describes the usual dosage of Xermelo. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Xermelo’s form?

Xermelo is available as a tablet that you swallow.

What strength does Xermelo come in?

Xermelo comes in a strength of 250 milligrams (mg).

What are the usual dosages of Xermelo?

The information below describes the dosage that’s commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for carcinoid syndrome diarrhea

The usual dosage of Xermelo to treat carcinoid syndrome diarrhea is 250 milligrams (mg) three times per day.

Is Xermelo used long term?

Yes, Xermelo is usually used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.

Xermelo comes as a tablet that you swallow whole. Do not crush, cut, or chew Xermelo tablets. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication.

You’ll take Xermelo three times per day. You should take it with food. Try to spread your doses evenly throughout the day, such as at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and try to stay on the same schedule each day.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a short-acting somatostatin analog injection, such as Sandostatin (octreotide acetate), with Xermelo. If so, your doctor will instruct you to give yourself the injection at least 30 minutes after you take Xermelo.

For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Xermelo, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Accessible drug containers and labels

Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:

  • have large print
  • use braille
  • feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio

Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.

If you miss a dose of Xermelo, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at its usual time. Do not take two doses of Xermelo at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Xermelo on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.

Do not take more Xermelo than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.

What to do in case you take too much Xermelo

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Xermelo. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.

The sections above describe the usual dosage provided by the manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Xermelo for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Xermelo without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Xermelo exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

  • Will my dosage be adjusted if I experience constipation with Xermelo?
  • Would taking a lower dosage still be effective in treating my condition?
  • Do I need a lower dosage of Xermelo if I have liver disease?

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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.