What is Lotronex?
Lotronex works by blocking the action of serotonin, a chemical in the intestines. This slows down the passage of stools through the intestines.Lotronex treats severe and chronic IBS in women who have diarrhoea as their main symptom. The condition is present at least 6 months.Alosetron is only for women who have failed to find relief from IBS after trying other treatments. Alosetron has not been proven to be effective for men with IBS.Lotronex does not cure irritable bowel syndrome. Your symptoms may return one week after you stop taking the medicine.
Warnings
Lotronex is only for women who have severe diarrhoea and irritable bowel symptoms.Lotronex should not be taken if you have constipation. Alosetron should also not be taken if you are taking fluvoxamine, also known as Luvox.Some people who take Lotronex have experienced serious or even fatal side effects in the stomach and intestines. Lotronex can cause severe constipation or ischemic colitis (caused when blood flow is reduced to the intestines).If you experience constipation that is new or worsening, stomach pains, bright red or dark blood in your stool, or bloody diarrhoea, stop taking the medicine immediately and contact your doctor. If you experience these side effects, it may be necessary to discontinue the medication.Lotronex should not be taken if you have constipation. This medicine should also not be taken if you are taking another medication called fluvoxamine.Do not take this medication again without consulting your doctor if you have stopped taking it for any reason.
Before you take this drug
You should not use Lotronex, if you had ever suffered from any of these conditions.
- Constipation is a common symptom of IBS.
- Constipation, whether severe or persistent.
- Obstruction or perforation in your intestines
- Diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis.
- Blood clots or circulation problems that affect your intestines.
- Severe liver disease
- Fluvoxamine is prescribed for a specific condition.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.If you are breastfeeding while taking Lotronex and your baby has constipation symptoms or bloody stools, contact your doctor.Lotronex should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.
Similar/related drugs
Xifaxan, rifaximin, Viberzi, alosetron, eluxadoline, and enteragam
How to take Lotronex?
Follow the instructions on your prescription label. Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Sometimes your doctor will change the dose you are taking to ensure that you receive the best possible results. Use this medication only as directed. Use the dose recommended and do not use more than that.You should read all the information provided, including medication guides and instructions. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.If you have constipation, do not take Lotronex. If you become constipated, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.This medicine can be taken with or without food.Lotronex may not be effective for all IBS sufferers. This medication can reduce diarrhoea, bowel urgency, and stomach discomfort. In 1 to 2 weeks, some or all of the symptoms may be relieved.If your IBS symptoms don't improve within 4 weeks, stop taking Lotronex. Call your doctor.Do not take Lotronex again without consulting your doctor if you have stopped taking it for any reason.Keep away from heat and moisture. Store at room temperature.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for irritable bowel syndrome:
Initial dose: 0.5mg orally, twice daily.
After 4 weeks, the maintenance dose can be increased to 1 mg twice daily.
Comments:
Due to the serious GI side effects associated with this drug, treatment should only be given to female patients who have the best benefit-to-risk ratio.
Use: Women with severe diarrhoea-predominant IBS who have chronic IBS (generally lasting six months or more), have had biochemical or anatomic abnormalities of the digestive tract excluded, and have not responded to conventional therapy.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Skip the missed dose if your next dose is near. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
For poison assistance, call 1-800-222-1222 or get immediate medical help.
What should be avoided?
Follow your doctor's instructions if he or she prescribes restrictions on food, drink, and activity.
Side effects of Lotronex
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat,Lotronex can cause serious or even fatal side effects in the stomach and intestines. Alosetron can cause severe constipation or ischemic colitis (caused when blood flow is reduced to the intestines).
If you experience:
- Constipation that is new or worsening
- Stomach pain;
- Blood in stool can be dark or bright red.
- Bloody diarrhea.
If you experience these side effects, it may be necessary to stop taking Lotronex permanently.
Constipation can cause serious complications in older adults, especially those with health problems or disabilities.
Lotronex may cause side effects such as:
- Constipation;
- Nausea;
- You may feel pain in your stomach or intestines.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. To report adverse effects, you can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drug
Alosetron can interact with many drugs. Some drugs, such as fluvoxamine and quinolone antibacterials, should be avoided.This medication guide does not list all possible interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications you take, including those you stop or start using during treatment with Lotronex. Provide a list to all healthcare providers who treat you.
