Linzess

Linzess is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It is also used for certain other types of constipation.

Linaclotide works by increasing the amount of fluid in the intestine and causing the content to move more quickly and ease the passage of stools.

It is available in the form of capsules and only with your doctor’s prescription.

If you are about to start Linzess, speak with your doctor about what you need to know.

Before starting the treatment your doctor should be informed about condition such as:

Allergy: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any food, preservatives, dyes, or had an allergic reaction when you used this drug before.

Children: Use in children is not recommended because of the toxicity related to Linaclotide.

Elderly: This medicine does not cause any different side effects or problem than it does in younger adults.

Pregnancy: It is a category C drug. There are no studies done which prove its safety during pregnancy. Consult your doctor and discuss the benefits and risks of using Linaclotide while you are pregnant.

Breastfeeding: There are no adequate studies which prove that Linaclotide passes into breast milk. If you are using Linaclotide while nursing, discuss it with your doctor for possible risk factors.

Drug Interactions: Linaclotide interacts with many drugs. It should not be used with several drugs. Your doctor should be informed of any other medicine which you are taking as he/she may change the dosage or drug.

Other Medical Conditions: Several other conditions may reduce its effectiveness.

Make sure you inform your doctor of conditions such as stomach or bowel (large and small intestine) blockage, should not be used with this condition.

Linzess should be use as directed by your doctor.it comes with an extra patient information guidance sheet called Medication guide. Read and understand it.

Linaclotide should be taken by mouth on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before breakfast or first meal of the day. Do not crush or chew before swallowing.

If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you may mix the contents with applesauce or water. It should not be used by children under 18 years of age.

Dosage: Drug dose is different for different people based on body weight. You should follow your doctor’s direction. The following information is an average dose of this drug.

For oral dosage form (capsules):

For Chronic Idiopathic Constipation: Adults: 145 micrograms (mcg) once per day.

For Irritable Bowel syndrome with Constipation: Adults: 290 micrograms (mcg) once per day.

Missed dose: If you miss a dose of Linaclotide, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage: Store it at room temperature. Keep it away from children.

You should keep the medicine in its original bottle. Do not remove the desiccant packet from the bottle, it protects capsules from moisture.

Before using Linzess, there are some precautions you must take.

Diarrhea is a common side effect of Linaclotide. It usually occurs within first 2 weeks of Linaclotide use.

If diarrhea is persistent or severe, stop taking the Linaclotide and consult your doctor right away. Before receiving any medical, dental, surgical care, inform your doctor that you use Linaclotide.

Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Linzess to avoid unwanted potential side effects.

All medicines have some side effects. Some people may experience none or minor side effects. Consult with your doctor if they become problematic or frequent.

Most common are:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain and gas

Less common are:

• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.