Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Amitiza

Amitiza: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Amitiza?

Amitiza is also known as Lubiprostone. It increases the secretion of fluids in the intestines to make it easier to pass stools. It is a highly effective medication for severely constipated patients. It is used to treat chronic constipation, constipation from opioids, and other types of constipation. It is only recommended for use in adults aged 18 years and above. The medication takes about 24 hours to work in chronically constipated patients.

What are the Uses of Amitiza?

This medication is used to treat certain types of constipation, such as that associated with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and Idiopathic Constipation. This type of constipation is usually not associated with diet and generally has an unknown cause. Amitiza is also used to treat patients who suffer from constipation after taking certain opioid medications. Amitiza belongs to a class of drugs called IBS agents or laxatives. It can be used in isolation or conjunction with other drugs.

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    What are the Side Effects of Amitiza?

    Light-headedness is a common side effect of Amitiza. Tell your doctor if you experience this side effect. Some patients develop shortness of breath or a tightness in the chest an hour after taking this medication. This usually goes away after 3 to 4 hours. However, inform your doctor if the side effects are too severe. Patients with underlying liver disease are advised to use the drug with caution, as it may aggravate the disease due to the slow removal of the drug from the body.

    What is Amitiza

    Uses of Amitiza

    Side effects of Amitiza

    References

    1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-95153/amitiza-oral/details
    2. https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/lubiprostone,amitiza.html
    3. https://www.rxlist.com/amitiza-drug.htm
    4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326048

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Amitiza

    The drug is usually taken orally by mouth. Do not crush or chew it. The effect is seen within 24 hours. Patients report their first bowel movement after 24 hours. In addition, the patient may also experience chest tightness, which usually subsides within a few hours. For the best results, the drug should be taken twice a day with food and water.

    Both drugs are used to treat chronic constipation and are equally effective. Both increase intestinal fluid secretions. The symptoms of constipation dissipate, and the patient finds it easy to pass stools without pain. Linzess has been found better in treating constipation compared to a placebo.

    No drug interaction has been observed when Amitiza and Miralax are taken together. However, it is still prudent for patients to bring this to the doctor’s attention, especially if they take both medications together. Since both are laxatives, your medical practitioner will suggest one of the two, depending on your overall medical history.

    No changes in weight have been observed in patients who take Amitiza. They neither lose nor gain weight while taking this medication. However, as a side effect, some patients may experience bloating, and this may cause weight fluctuations. On average, the drug remedies the symptoms of constipation and associated water retention that may occur along with it.

    Yes, Amitiza is a laxative used to treat chronic constipation, such as idiopathic constipation, constipation that occurs due to IBS, and the intake of certain opioids. It helps increase fluid secretions in the intestines and loosens stools. The patient finds it easier to pass stools without pain.

    It is quite safe to take this drug. Many people take this drug on a long-term basis without any major side effects. In the short term, it may cause some side effects such as tightness in the chest and shortness of breath. However, these symptoms usually dissipate. It is okay to take the drug for up to 9 months. As a laxative, the drug is highly and widely recommended by doctors.

    Both drugs have been found equally effective in treating constipation. However, many doctors and patients prefer Miralax, as it has fewer side effects than Amitiza. However, Amitiza is said to be better and more effective than a placebo. Also, these medications are prescribed after considering the patient’s medical history.

    Only a small amount of the drug is readily absorbed by the body, so it is generally safe to take this drug during pregnancy. However, it should only be considered for short-term use and taken under very strict supervision. As a cautionary measure, no drug should be prescribed to a pregnant woman without her doctor’s advice.

    No, it is advisable not to take Amitiza while breastfeeding. The medication can pass to the baby and cause severe diarrhea. Tell your doctor you are a breastfeeding mother. You must also inform the doctor if your baby develops diarrhea and the medication needs to be changed.

    There are no known interactions between Amitiza and alcohol. But it is always better to exercise caution when under medication. Since Amitiza causes dizziness, alcohol may exacerbate the condition. It may also lead to car fatalities if the person consumes alcohol, takes the drug, and drives.