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Home > Drug Category > Irritable Bowel Syndrome > Linzess and Equivalent

Linzess Information

Linzess (Linaclotide) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat chronic gastrointestinal issues. It is typically used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation in adults. It is also approved in some regions for the treatment of functional constipation in children aged 6 to 17. The active pharmaceutical ingredient is linaclotide, a guanylate cyclase-C agonist. It works locally in the intestine with minimal absorption into the rest of the body. It works by binding to a specific receptor on the intestinal surface, which triggers the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen. As water follows these electrolytes, the stool is softened and transit time through the colon is accelerated. Additionally, its effects on these receptors may reduce the sensitivity of pain-sensing nerves.

In chronic idiopathic constipation, the bowels simply move too slowly without a known cause, leading to hard, infrequent stools. Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation adds a layer of complexity because it involves significant abdominal pain and bloating alongside the constipation. Linzess helps by increasing intestinal fluid, which softens hard, difficult-to-pass stool and eases strain, increasing the frequency of bowel movements. For those with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, this medication’s potential to reduce visceral pain signals may provide relief from the chronic cramping that often persists even after a bowel movement occurs.

Linzess Side Effects

Some common side effects of this medication may include diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, and bloating. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• New or worsening abdominal pain;
• Passage of bright red, bloody stools or black stools;
• Severe diarrhea (persistent watery stools)

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Linzess Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to linaclotide or any other ingredients in Linzess. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including gastrointestinal problems such as a blocked intestine, bleeding from the bowel or rectum, or severe diarrhea. This medication is strictly contraindicated in children under 2 years of age. In neonatal mice, linaclotide causes death due to severe dehydration, and while human data is limited, the risk of serious, rapid-onset dehydration in young children is considered too high. Linzess is often considered unlikely to cause major birth defects or miscarriage because systemic exposure to the mother is negligible. However, it is usually prescribed only if the benefit clearly outweighs any potential unknown risk. It can be used while breastfeeding as it is not expected to pass through breast milk.

Taking Linzess alongside other laxatives (like bisacodyl or magnesium citrate) may increase the frequency or severity of diarrhea. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are using before starting Linzess. Take one capsule exactly once per day. Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush or chew it. You must take the dose on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before your first meal of the day. If you have trouble swallowing, the contents of the capsule may be sprinkled on applesauce or water and consumed immediately. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medication for you depending on your condition. Check out the leaflets in the medication pack for more usage instructions. Linzess should be kept in its original bottle with the desiccant (drying agent) inside. Linaclotide is highly sensitive to moisture, so moving it to a pill organizer can cause it to degrade. Protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Linzess?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Linzess.