Amitiza

Amitiza is a locally-acting chloride-channel activator that increases intestinal secretion. In doing so, it increases intestinal motility, thus aiding the passage of stool and relieves the symptoms associated with chronic idiopathic constipation.

It is also used to treat constipation caused by opioid (narcotic) medicines in adults with chronic, non-cancer pain. Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) is another condition, in which lubiprostone is commonly indicated.

If you are about to start Amitiza, the risk and benefit ratio of taking this drug should be considered. This is a decision that your doctor will make with your active participation. There are some important factors such as drug interaction, metabolic impairment, hypersensitivity reaction, pregnancy, lactation etc. that may alter the drug action.

Sometimes, presence of other health disorders affects the beneficial effects of this medicine and may even cause serious complications. Make sure you mention to your doctor if you have any other medical problems. The use of lubiprostone is contraindicated if there is history of mechanical GI obstruction.

Although there are no known well-documented drug interactions, certain drugs should not be used concurrently with such medications. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor if you are in need of some drugs for another health problem in order to avoid unwanted serious complications.

Medicines should be used following the directions given by a doctor. The dose of Amitiza will vary according to patient’s condition or requirements. You should follow the doctor's directions and advice.

The amount of medicine that you take should not exceed the maximum therapeutic dose. Also, the frequency of your daily drug administration and the duration of drug therapy depend on the particular medical problem for which you are taking the medicine.

In order to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), 8mcg is given in an adult patient twice daily. 24 mcg is usually given twice in a day to treat chronic idiopathic constipation.

Always try to take your medicine in time. If you miss any dose of this medicine, you should take it as soon as possible. But if it is time for your next dose, then you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular treatment schedule.

You should store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light. All kinds of medicines should be kept out of the reach of children. Outdated medicine must be disposed in an appropriate way.

Regular visits are recommended to make sure this medicine is working properly while you are receiving Amitiza therapy. Some important measures should be taken if you feel any discomfort following this drug therapy.

Safety has not been established in pregnant women. It should not to be used in patients with severe diarrhea.

There are some unwanted side-effects associated with Amitiza that usually do not need medical attention. Dose-dependent nausea, diarrhea, abdominal distension, pain, flatulence, and vomiting are the common adverse effects. In addition, headache, dizziness, fatigue, dyspnea, and peripheral edema may occur, but rarely.

These side-effects usually go away during the treatment episode as your body adjusts to the medicine. Your healthcare professional may advise you about the ways to prevent or reduce those unwanted side-effects. Sometimes, you may need to consult with the doctor if you feel any serious toxic effect.