Linzess is a prescription medication with a brand name. It has received approval from the FDA for the treatment of certain digestive conditions in adults, including irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. This condition is characterized by constipation accompanied by symptoms like bloating or abdominal pain. Linzess is also approved for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation, a condition that leads to frequent constipation without a known underlying cause.
Drug Information:
Linzess is categorized under guanylate cyclase-C agonists and is administered in the form of oral capsules. The available strengths of Linzess are 72 micrograms (mcg), 145 mcg, and 290 mcg.
Effectiveness:
For details regarding the effectiveness of Linzess, please refer to the “Linzess uses” section below.
Linzess Generic:
As of now, Linzess is exclusively offered as a brand-name medication and does not have a generic counterpart. Generic drugs are identical copies of the active ingredient found in brand-name medications and typically come at a lower cost.
Active Ingredient:
Linzess contains linaclotide as its active drug component.
Linzess side effects
Linzess has the potential to induce both mild and severe side effects, and the likelihood of these side effects may vary based on the specific condition being treated. The subsequent lists outline some significant side effects associated with Linzess use; however, they do not encompass all possible outcomes.
For more detailed information on potential Linzess side effects, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide guidance on managing any side effects that may be worrisome or bothersome.
Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) monitors the side effects of approved drugs. If you wish to report a side effect experienced with Linzess, you can do so through MedWatch.
Mild Side Effects:
Mild side effects of Linzess may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Gas
- Bloating
- Headache†
- Mild diarrhea†
While these side effects are generally temporary and may subside within a few days to weeks, it is recommended to consult your doctor or pharmacist if they persist or intensify.
Serious Side Effects:
Serious side effects from Linzess are uncommon but can occur. Seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or calling 911 if you experience symptoms that feel life-threatening or if you believe you are facing a medical emergency.
Serious side effects of Linzess may encompass:
- Severe diarrhea
- Allergic reaction
For more information on these side effects, refer to the “Side effect details” below.
Side Effect Details:
- Headache: While headache was not a prevalent side effect in clinical trials, it may still occur, particularly in individuals using Linzess for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).What you can do: If frequent or bothersome headaches arise while taking Linzess, consult your doctor. They may recommend over-the-counter options such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) to alleviate discomfort.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea may manifest during Linzess treatment, with reports indicating it as the most common side effect. Although most cases are not severe, instances of serious diarrhea have been noted.What you can do: In cases of severe diarrhea, consult your doctor to assess the continuation of Linzess treatment. If dehydration symptoms occur, seek medical attention promptly. To prevent and manage diarrhea, staying hydrated and consuming electrolytes as recommended by your doctor is advised.
- Allergic Reaction: Like many drugs, Linzess may trigger an allergic reaction. Mild symptoms include skin rash, itchiness, and flushing, while severe reactions may involve swelling under the skin, particularly in the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet, as well as swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat, and difficulty breathing.What you can do: Contact your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to Linzess. In severe cases, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Long-term Side Effects:
Linzess is not known to cause long-term side effects. Most side effects reported in clinical trials were observed only during Linzess use. If your doctor advises discontinuation of Linzess treatment, the associated side effects should resolve.
For additional information on what to expect with Linzess, consult your doctor with any questions or concerns.
Pros and Cons of Linzess
Pros of Linzess
- Effectiveness
- Quick Onset
- Oral Administration
- Minimal Systemic Absorption
Cons of Linzess
- Side Effects
- Pregnancy Concerns
- Cost
Differences Between Linzess and Dramamine
Linzess
It is primarily used for the treatment of digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC).
Dramamine
It is an over-the-counter medication commonly used to prevent and alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
Alternative to Linzess
Amitiza (Lubiprostone)
Amitiza is another medication used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. It works by increasing fluid secretion in the intestines to help facilitate bowel movements.
Linzess dosage
The prescribed dosage of Linzess is determined by your doctor based on various factors, including the type and severity of the condition being treated and any side effects experienced during Linzess use. In some instances, your doctor may initiate treatment with a lower dosage and make adjustments over time to find the optimal amount for you. The goal is to prescribe the smallest effective dosage.
Linzess is available in oral capsule form, and it comes in strengths of 72 micrograms (mcg), 145 mcg, and 290 mcg.
Dosage for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation:
- Typical dosage: 290 mcg per day
- The lowest and maximum recommended doses are also 290 mcg.
Dosage for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation:
- Typical dosage: 145 mcg per day
- The recommended maximum dose is 145 mcg.
If symptoms are not severe or if side effects occur with the 145-mcg dose, your doctor may prescribe a lower dosage of 72 mcg once per day. The lowest recommended dose for Linzess is 72 mcg.
It is crucial to adhere to the dosage instructions provided by your doctor. They will determine the most suitable dosage to address your specific needs. If you have any concerns or questions about your Linzess dosage, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
What if I miss a dose?
If you happen to miss a dose of Linzess, it is advised to skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule by taking the next dose as planned the following day. It’s important not to take two doses of Linzess simultaneously in an attempt to compensate for the missed dose.
To minimize the likelihood of missing a dose, consider using a medication reminder system. This can involve setting alarms or timers, or utilizing a reminder app on your phone. By incorporating such tools into your routine, you can enhance your medication adherence and reduce the risk of missing doses. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication schedule, it’s recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
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How long does it take to work?
Linzess typically starts its therapeutic effects upon the first dose, though the noticeable relief of symptoms, particularly in the case of constipation, may take around 1 week. It’s important to be patient, as the drug may continue to improve its efficacy over the next 12 weeks.
Unlike many medications, Linzess does not absorb well into the bloodstream. Consequently, its half-life, which is the time it takes for the body to eliminate half a dose of a drug, is not precisely known. Linzess primarily operates within the digestive system rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream.
This characteristic distinguishes it from drugs that undergo systemic absorption and influences the way Linzess interacts with the body. If you have any specific concerns or questions about the timeline or effectiveness of Linzess, it is advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Linzess and pregnancy
The safety of taking Linzess during pregnancy is not well established, as there haven’t been clinical trials specifically conducted on pregnant individuals. Linzess primarily acts in the digestive tract and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, suggesting that a developing fetus would likely be exposed to a small amount of the drug.
While animal studies have not reported congenital anomalies (birth defects), high doses of Linzess in pregnant animals did show adverse effects on both the mothers and their fetuses. It’s important to note that findings in animal studies may not necessarily predict outcomes in humans.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer relies on pregnancy categories to determine the safety of medications during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking Linzess with your healthcare provider. They can help you make an informed decision and develop an appropriate treatment plan during your pregnancy.
Conclusion
Linzess is a medication primarily designed to address digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation in adults. It is available in oral capsule form with strengths of 72 micrograms (mcg), 145 mcg, and 290 mcg. While the drug is known to start working with the first dose, noticeable symptom relief, especially in cases of constipation, may take approximately one week, with continued improvement over the subsequent 12 weeks.
It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage provided by your healthcare provider and to avoid doubling up on doses if one is missed. In case of a missed dose, simply resume the regular dosing schedule the following day. Employing a medication reminder system, such as alarms or timer apps, can be helpful in maintaining consistency.
Regarding pregnancy, the safety of Linzess has not been conclusively established, and there haven’t been specific clinical trials for pregnant individuals. Although Linzess is not highly absorbed into the bloodstream, potential risks cannot be ruled out. Animal studies showed adverse effects at high doses, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Ultimately, individual responses to Linzess may vary, and it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns, side effects, or questions you may have. They can provide personalized guidance to ensure that the benefits of Linzess outweigh potential risks in your specific health situation.
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The content is intended to augment, not replace, information provided by your clinician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Reading this information does not create or replace a doctor-patient relationship or consultation. If required, please contact your doctor or other health care provider to assist you to interpret any of this information, or in applying the information to your individual needs.
