What is Linaclotide?
Linaclotide is prescribed for treating persistent constipation, chronic IBS, or irritable intestinal syndrome (IBS) when patients suffer from constipation as their principal sign.
Linaclotide also helps with the treatment of functional constipation (FC) in youngsters and adolescents aged between 6 and 17 years old.Linaclotide is also used to treat conditions not covered in this guideline.
Side effects of Linaclotide
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling on your lips, face your tongue or throat.
Linaclotide may cause serious side effects. Do not use linaclotide anymore, and contact your physician immediately. If you experience:
- Persistent, severe, chronic, or persistent diarrhea persistent or chronic diarrhea
- Diarrhea with dizziness or a sensation of lightheadedness (like the feeling you're experiencing when you pass out)
Common side effects associated with the drug linaclotide could be:
- Diarrhea;
- Stomach pain;
- Gas
- Bloating or feeling full inside the stomach
It isn't a comprehensive listing of all side effects. Other side effects could occur. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on adverse consequences. The best way to report adverse reactions is to call the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
It is not recommended to use linaclotide when you have an obstruction of the digestive tract.Linaclotide is not permitted for use by any person older than the age of 6.
Linaclotide is not to be administered to children less than six years old. Linaclotide can cause extreme diarrhea and death from dehydration in children.
Before you Take this Drug
It is not recommended to use the drug linaclotide if you have an allergy to it or are suffering from
- An obstruction in your digestive tract (bowel obstruction).
Linaclotide is not recommended for use by anyone less than six years old.Linaclotide shouldn't be administered to children less than 2 years old. Linaclotide can cause extreme diarrhea as well as severe dehydration in children less than two years old. Do not give linaclotide to teens or children without consulting an experienced doctor.Inform your physician if you are nursing or pregnant.
How to Take Linaclotide?
Make sure you follow the instructions on your prescription label and review all drug guides or instruction sheets. Follow the medication exactly according to the directions.In the morning, take linaclotide with a full stomach for at least 30 minutes prior to your first meal.Take the capsule in its entirety, but do not chew, crush, break, or crack it.
If you're unable to take a capsule in its entirety, crack the capsule and pour the drug into a teaspoonful of applesauce or water in a bottle. Drink the liquid immediately without chewing. It is not a good idea to save it to be used later.
Even if you've already used this medicine along with applesauce, you should wait at least 30 minutes before eating a large meal.If required, the medicine in the linaclotide capsule can be administered via a nasogastric (NG) or gastrostomy tube.
Be sure to follow the instructions when mixing capsules of medicine in water or applesauce or administering the medicine via the feeding tube. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you have doubts.
It could take as long as two weeks before symptoms get better. Use the medication exactly according to the directions, and inform your doctor if you feel your symptoms persist.Storage at room temperature, free of heat and moisture. Place the tablets back in their original containers, alongside the packaging or canister filled with moisture-absorbing preservative.
Make sure this medication is kept away from young children. Linaclotide could cause fetal harm to children who swallow the medicine accidentally. Seek emergency medical care if this occurs.
Details on Dosage
Normal Adult Dosage for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C):
300 mg orally, once per day
Treatment: For constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C)
Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC):
150 mg orally, once per day
Use: Treatment for constipation that is chronically idiopathic (CIC)
Usual Pediatric Dose for Functional Constipation (FC):
72 mg taken orally every day
Treatment: treating functional constipation (FC) for children from 6 to 17 years old
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
Do not miss the dose, then take the next dose at your regular timing. Avoid using two doses in one go.
What Happens If I Overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency treatment or dial toll-free the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.
What Should be Avoided?
Check with your physician's recommendations regarding the food you eat, beverages, or activities.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Other medicines can interact with linaclotide. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and natural products. Inform your physician about the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you begin or stop taking.
