Why is Linzess prescribed?

Linaclotide (Linzess) is prescribed for the management of certain types of bowel problems such as constipation and irritable bowel disorder associated with pain and bloating.

What does it do?

Linzess, a gastrointestinal agent, being a secretagogue, laxative and analgesic, is primarily used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and for chronic idiopathic constipation. This gastrointestinal agent is classified as synthetic, and an agonist of intestinal guanylate cyclase type C (GC-C). It stimulates the GC-C receptors located on the lining of the intestinal epithelium, thereby, increasing the secretion of fluids (chloride and water) in the intestine and helps in catalysing the movement of food through the gut; and improve discomfort and abdominal pain.

How should I use it?

Linzess is available in 290mcg (0.29mg) capsule. It is intended to be swallowed as a whole, not to be crushed or chewed and should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning, 30 minutes before breakfast.

For patients having difficulty in swallowing, below are the following instructions that may be useful:

1. Open the capsule and mix the content in a tablespoonful (5ml) of applesauce at room temperature in a clean container. Drink immediately without chewing the beads and do not store the remaining residue for future use.
2. It can also be administered by pouring the contents in a 2 tablespoonful (30ml) of water. Carefully swirl the mixture for at least 20 seconds and drink immediately without chewing the beads. You can add another 30ml of water in the remaining mixture and swirl again for 20 seconds and drink immediately to get your whole dose.

Note: If the patient uses nasogastric or gastric tube, it is advised to ask your healthcare professional for the detailed instruction on how to administer properly the medication.

What if I missed a dose?

The desired effects of prescribed medications will only be achieved if used properly. As much as possible, strictly follow your doctor’s prescribed dosing schedule. However, if you miss a dose, use it immediately and adjust the time of your next dose depending on your doctor’s advice. Never administer two doses at the same time just to make up for your missed dose.

What are the special precautions before using Linzess?

Before taking Linzess capsule, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to food and to the drug itself as it may contain several inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or problems.

Inform your doctor about your past and current medical history such as stomach and/or instestinal blockage and if you’ve had any past surgeries or if you’re planning to get one.

For the drug label information of Linzess, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects may include:
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Common cold
• Gas build up (Flatulence)
• Headache

Serious side effects may include:
• Bright red or black stool
• Dyspnea
• Hives
• Itching
• Severe diarrhea
• Swelling of belly
• Unusual stomach pain
• Unusual hoarseness

Is it safe to use it with another drug?

Some drug interactions may cause life-threatening reactions when taken with other medications. Immediately inform your doctor if you are taking Linzess with any of the following medications:

• Abilify
• Acetazolamide
• Adalat
• Aldactazide
• Atracurium
• Biperiden
• Bisacodyl
• Cardizem CD
• Cephulac
• Chlorpromazine
• Cordarone
• Diamox
• Elavil
• Flunarizine
• Lamictal
• Nimodipine
• Norvasc
• Oxycodone
• Plendil
• Prozac
• Samsca
• Seroquel
• Symmetrel
• Tropicamide
• Zyprexa

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for other possible interactions not listed within this section.

How should I store it?

Store Linzess capsule in room temperature (25 °C) with a clean environment away from light and moisture. Keep away from children. Do not remove the desiccant in the original container. Do not subdivide or repackage.

Throw away if unused or expired. Do not flush in the toilet. Consult the pharmacist for proper disposal.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

Immediately call an ambulance and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

As per USA FDA, Linaclotide is categorized as Pregnancy Category C. Human studies show no sufficient evidence of any drug-associated risk for birth defects and miscarriage. However, animal studies have revealed Linzess can cause adverse fetal effects only at higher doses than the recommended dose for humans.

There have been no studies both in human and in animals regarding the presence of Linzess in human lactation, nor its effects on the production of milk or the breastfed infant.

Hence, the use of Linzess in pregnant and breastfeeding women should be avoided unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

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