FAQs:
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.
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
1. Can you take Linzess at night?
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.
2. How to take Linzess?
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.
3. Is Amitiza or Linzess stronger?
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.
4. Can I take Linzess every other day?
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.
6. How long does it take for Linzess to work?
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.
7. How to use Linzess for weight loss?
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.
8. Does Linzess make you poop?
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.
9. Is Linzess a laxative or stool softener?
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).
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Side Effects:
– Diarrhoea
– Bloating
– Stomach pain
– Discomfort in abdominal areas
– Distention (pressure in abdominal areas)
– Rashes or itching
– Swelling in throat, tongue, face
– Diarrhoea with severe dizziness
– Light-headedness
– Feeling unsteady
– Acute leg cramps
– Irregular heartbeats
– Muscle weakness
– Bright red, bloody, and black stools