Linzess Information: Details on Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, Alternatives, and Additional Facts
Linzess, a medication used to treat certain digestive system problems, has gained attention for its ability to alleviate constipation in people with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) [1]. Here's what you need to know about Linzess.
Availability and Cost
If you require financial assistance to cover the cost of Linzess, AbbVie's Linzess Savings Program may provide help [1]. The drug can also be obtained through a mail-order pharmacy, which may help lower its cost and make it more convenient to receive your medication [2].
Health Considerations
Before starting Linzess, it's essential to discuss your health history with your doctor. Linzess may not be suitable for individuals with specific medical conditions or other factors affecting their health [1]. It's essential to note that Linzess is not available in a generic form [1].
Usage and Effectiveness
Linzess is believed to work by increasing the amount of fluid in your intestines and helping food move more quickly through your digestive tract [1]. While both Linzess and Trulance are effective for relieving constipation symptoms, some users report differences in personal tolerability and outcomes [3]. Trulance may provide more predictable relief without significant diarrhea, while Linzess can cause variable responses, sometimes necessitating skipped doses due to side effects [3].
Side Effects
Common side effects of Linzess include severe bloating and diarrhea in some users, leading to difficulty deciding when to take the medication [3]. By contrast, Trulance is often described as gentler, with mild bloating and fewer reports of severe cramping or water retention [3]. However, it's crucial to remember that individual responses vary, and some users may still experience side effects like diarrhea or even paradoxical constipation [3].
Safety Considerations
The safety of Linzess during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. There haven't been clinical trials of the drug during pregnancy, and it isn't known if the drug passes into breast milk [2]. If you're sexually active and can become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding, it's essential to discuss your concerns with your doctor [2].
Interactions and Precautions
Linzess should not be taken with alcohol, as drinking alcohol may worsen some side effects of the drug, such as headaches and diarrhea, which may be severe [2]. It's also essential to note that while there are no known interactions between Linzess and other medications or supplements, it can interact with food. Taking Linzess with food may increase its side effects, such as diarrhea [2].
Disposal of Unused Medication
If you no longer need to take Linzess and have leftover medication, it's important to dispose of it safely to prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident [1].
Overdose and Stopping Treatment
Using more than the recommended dosage of Linzess can lead to serious side effects. Symptoms of an overdose can include diarrhea [1]. It's crucial not to stop taking Linzess unless you first speak with your doctor [1].
Conclusion
Linzess can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from constipation related to IBS-C or CIC. However, it's essential to discuss its potential side effects, interactions, and safety considerations with your doctor to determine if it's the right choice for you. Always remember to store Linzess at room temperature and dispose of any unused medication safely.
[1] AbbVie. (2021). Linzess. Retrieved from https://www.linzess.com/ [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Linzess (linaclotide). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/linzess/description/drg-20066622 [3] Drugs.com. (2021). Linzess: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, Warning, Patient Info, and Recalls. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/linzess.html [4] Healthline. (2021). Linzess (linaclotide): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, Warning, Overdose, and More. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/drugs/linzess-oral [5] GoodRx. (2021). Linzess. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/linzess
- In cases where financial difficulties arise in obtaining Linzess, AbbVie's Linzess Savings Program might offer assistance.
- Apart from discussing health history, it is essential to consider other factors affecting health before starting Linzess.
- Linzess and Trulance have been found to be effective in relieving constipation symptoms, but personal tolerability and outcomes may vary.
- Common side effects of Linzess include severe bloating and diarrhea, leading to difficult medication scheduling.
- While considering medication, it is crucial to be aware that Linzess is not available in a generic form.
- Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding for Linzess has not been fully established due to the lack of clinical trials during pregnancy and unknown drug passage into breast milk.
- To ensure safety, Linzess should not be consumed with alcohol, and taking it with food may increase its side effects such as diarrhea.
