Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Linzess

Linzess: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Linzess?

Linzess (generic name: linaclotide) is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and idiopathic constipation (CIC). The term ‘Idiopathic’ refers to the unknown factor about the source or cause of constipation. This medication is not recommended for children under 6 years as it can cause some serious side effects. The effectiveness and safety of Linzess drugs have not been recognized yet in minor (below the age of 18) patients.

Linzess is a prescription-only medication.

What are the Uses of Linzess?

Linzess’ uses extend in treating gastrointestinal issues. Here is how it helps:

  • It treats irritable bowel syndrome (with constipation).
  • It treats chronic idiopathic constipation.
  • It facilitates the movement of food through the intestine by increasing the fluid ratio in the intestine.
  • It reduces symptoms such as abdominal pain, straining, and bloating.
  • It gives relief from the feelings of heaviness caused by incomplete bowel movements.
  • It improves stool texture.

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    What are the Side Effects of Linzess?

    Linzess’s side effects are not rare. Common and noticeable ones are –

    • Gas formation
    • Diarrhoea
    • Bloating
    • Stomach pain
    • Discomfort in abdominal areas
    • Distention (pressure in abdominal areas)
    • Rashes or itching
    • Swelling in throat, tongue, face

     

    Some of the serious side effects of Linzess include –

    • Diarrhoea with severe dizziness
    • Light-headedness
    • Feeling unsteady
    • Acute leg cramps
    • Irregular heartbeats
    • Muscle weakness
    • Bright red, bloody, and black stools

    You must exercise extreme precautions while using Linzess medication. Therefore, we recommend that you consult our experts at Yashoda Hospitals to know about the dosages and precautions you need to take.

    What is Linzess

    Uses of Linzess

    Side effects of Linzess

    References

    1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-162895/linzess-oral/details
    2. https://www.linzess.com/#isiSection
    3. https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/medicine/linzess

    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 Linzess

    Consuming Linzess (linaclotide) at night is not recommended. The best time to take Linzess is in the morning (on an empty stomach), half an hour before breakfast. Consumption of Linzess with food may lead to several gastrointestinal side effects, including gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.

    Linzess is an oral medication (to be taken by mouth). The whole capsule is to be swallowed at once. Do not chew or break the capsules while consuming. It is recommended to consume this medicine early in the morning on an empty stomach. For better results, Linzess is generally prescribed to be taken 30 minutes before eating your first meal of the day.

    Both Amitiza and Linzess are used for the treatment of CIC and IBS-C. They are both prescription drugs, and both have shown similar effectiveness in relieving the problems of constipation and promoting bowel movement. Amitiza capsules are available in strengths of 8 and 24 mcg. On the other hand, the Linzess capsule is consumed once a day and is available in strengths of 72, 145, and 290 mcg, respectively.

    Yes, Linzess must be consumed every day for better work and relief. Linzess works differently than other over-the-counter laxatives (medicines that stimulate bowel movements), generally consumed as and when needed. When Linzess is used daily, one can get relief from constipation-related problems in about a week.

    Linzess can be safely taken with other medicines. No major interactions have been found or reported between Linzess and other medications. However, certain laxatives, including magnesium citrate, sodium phosphate, and polyethylene glycol, must be avoided while taking Linzess as they may increase the chances of having diarrhoea.

    Consult our experts for a better understanding of Linzess side effects, dose, precautions, and uses.

    As Linzess is not a laxative, it doesn't show its healing properties immediately. Most people will notice the change or feel constipation relieved only after using the medicine for at least a week. For the patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation, improvements are noticed only after taking medicine consecutively for 12 weeks.

    Linzess is not a weight loss medicine. However, some people who have continuously taken this medication to treat chronic constipation have experienced weight loss. The reason behind this diarrhoea: Linzess' side effect! Diarrhoea causes a lot of loss of electrolytes and water from the body, resulting in weight loss amongst patients.

    Yes, Linzess does help you poop! As this medication increases the chloride and water secretion in the intestines, it helps in softening stools and thereby stimulating bowel movements. Furthermore, it helps you in having more frequent and complete bowel movements. Simultaneously, it eases the stomach pain and discomfort in the abdominal areas like pain or bloating.

    No, Linzess is not a laxative. Linzess softens the stools by secreting more water and chloride in the intestine and thus, stimulating bowel movements. Unlike laxatives, this medication is to be taken once daily for better constipation relief, which is observed only after one week (the time also depends on the patient's medical condition).