Linzess (linaclotide) works by increasing the secretion of chloride and water in the intestines, which can soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.
Linzess is a prescription medicine used to treat chronic constipation, or chronic irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults who have had constipation as the main symptom. The safety and effectiveness of Linzess has not been established in patients under 18 years of age.
Important information
You should not use Linzess if you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines.
Linzess should not be given to a child younger than 6 years old. Avoid use of this medicine in patients 6 through 17 years of age. Do not give this medicine to any child or teenager without the advice of a doctor.
Take Linzess in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first meal. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a capsule. Swallow it whole.
Stop using Linzess and call your doctor at once if you have severe or ongoing diarrhea, severe stomach pain, or black, bloody, or tarry stools.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Linzess if you are allergic to linaclotide, or if you have:
Linzess should not be given to a child younger than 6 years old. Do not give this medicine to any child or teenager without the advice of a doctor.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Linzess will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether linaclotide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Linzess?
Take Linzess exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open a capsule. Swallow it whole.
Take Linzess in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first meal.
It may take up to 2 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Linzess.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep the capsules in their original container, along with the packet of moisture-absorbing preservative that comes with this medicine. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Linzess dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
290 mcg orally once a day
Comments:
-Take on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes prior to the first meal of the day
-Swallow capsules whole; do not break apart or chew
Use: Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
Usual Adult Dose for Constipation:
145 mcg orally once a day
Comments:
-Take on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes prior to the first meal of the day
-Swallow capsules whole; do not break apart or chew
Use: Chronic idiopathic constipation
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include severe forms of some of the side effects listed in this medication guide.
What should I avoid while taking Linzess?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Linzess side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Linzess: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Linzess and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe or ongoing diarrhea;
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severe stomach pain; or
-
black, bloody, or tarry stools.
Common Linzess side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Linzess?
Other drugs may interact with linaclotide, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all medications you use, and those you start or stop using during your treatment.
