Linzess (linaclotide) is a prescription capsule that’s used to treat certain types of digestive system problems. Linzess can cause side effects that range from mild to serious. Examples include diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain. It also treats chronic constipation with an unknown (idiopathic) cause.
Uses
Read the medication guide provided by your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking Linaclotide and each time to get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not break or chew the capsules. If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, it may be opened, and the contents mixed in a teaspoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away, without chewing it. Do not save the mixture for future use.
You may also empty the capsule’s content into an ounce (30 milliliters) of water. Swirl the mixture for 20 seconds and drink away, without chewing it. Add another ounce (30 milliliters) of water to the cup, swirl for 20 seconds, and drink right away to get your whole dose. Always consult your doctor about uses and dosage.
Side effects
Some people may experience mild, serious side effects during their long-term treatment. Examples of common side effects in people using Linzess for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or chronic idiopathic constipation include:
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Gas
Bloating
These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Linzess in their studies. Some side effects can vary depending on which condition the drug is being used to treat.
Mild side effects
Examples, of mild side effects that have been reported with Linzess, include:
Gas
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Headache
Mild diarrhea
In most cases, these side effects should be temporary. And some may be managed, too. But if you have any symptoms that are ongoing or bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking Linzess unless your doctor recommends it. Linzess may cause side effects other than the ones listed above.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects may occur in people taking Linzess. These may include:
Severe diarrhea
If you develop serious side effects while taking Linzess, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life-threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Side effects in children
Linzess may cause some side effects in children that differ from those experienced by adults. In studies, nausea, and abdominal discomfort were reported in children who took Linzess. These side effects were not reported in studies of adults taking the drug.
To find out more about what side effects your child may have with Linzess treatment, talk with their doctor.
Dosage
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Alcohol and linzess
It may be safe to drink alcohol during your long-term treatment. But keep in mind that Linzess can cause headaches and diarrhea. In some cases, diarrhea may lead to dehydration. Drinking alcohol can worsen these side effects.
If you drink alcohol and have questions about alcohol use with Linzess, talk with your doctor. They can help determine how much alcohol may be safe for you to drink while taking this medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Linzess
It is not known whether it’s safe to take Linzess during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before starting Linzess treatment. They’ll let you know whether this drug is safe for you to take or discuss other treatment options with you.
It’s not knowing whether Linzess is safe to take while breastfeeding. Linzess isn’t thought to pass into breast milk. But it’s not known whether Linzess affects your body’s ability to produce breast milk.
If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor before taking Linzess.
Precaution
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: stomach/intestinal blockage. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
