Uses
What is Linzess used for?
Linzess (linaclotide) is commonly used to treat constipation in people with certain bowel problems, including irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), chronic idiopathic constipation, and functional constipation.
Linzess may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does Linzess work (mechanism of action)?
Linzess works by increasing the amount of fluid in your intestines. This helps soften your stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. Linzess also helps to move food through your gut more quickly.
How is Linzess supplied (dosage forms)?
Linzess is available in the following dosage forms that are taken by mouth.
- 72 mcg oral capsules
- 145 mcg oral capsules
- 290 mcg oral capsules
How should I store Linzess?
Linzess should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Keep Linzess in its original container. To help protect Linzess from moisture, do not remove the desiccant from the container.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of Linzess?
The most common side effects of Linzess are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Diarrhea (see below)
- Stomach pain
- Gas
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in your stomach
There may be other side effects of Linzess that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of Linzess?
While less common, the most serious side effects of Linzess are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Linzess may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Linzess and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Diarrhea. Diarrhea is common with Linzess, and it can sometimes become severe. Stop taking Linzess and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following.
- Unusual or severe stomach pain
- Diarrhea with weakness, dizziness, or fever
- Bright red blood in your stool or black tarry stools
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not use Linzess?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Linzess.
- Linzess
- Linaclotide
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Linzess.
Children Less Than 2 Years of Age. Linzess can cause serious diarrhea in children less than 2 years of age, which may result in severe dehydration. Linzess should not be used in children under 2 years of age.
Blockage in the Gut. Do not take Linzess if you have a blockage in your gut (bowel obstruction). Linzess could make your condition worse.
What should I know about Linzess before using it?
Do not take Linzess unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed.
Do not share Linzess with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Keep Linzess out of the reach of children.
Take Linzess at the same time every day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal.
Take the Linzess capsule whole. If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you may open it and sprinkle the beads into a teaspoonful of applesauce or one ounce (30 milliliters) of bottled water. Swallow the mixture right away. Do not store it for future use and do not chew the beads.
Linzess can be given through a nasogastric or gastric tube. If you are giving it through a feeding tube, make sure that you or a caregiver understand how to properly prepare and use Linzess. If you have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using Linzess?
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Linzess is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Linzess could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should take Linzess while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. It is not known if Linzess passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
How can I get more information about Linzess?
For more information about Linzess, you can visit the manufacturer’s website at www.linzess.com or call them at 855-226-3937.
Interactions
Does Linzess interact with foods or drinks?
Linzess should be taken on an empty stomach. Avoid taking Linzess within 30 minutes before meals.
There are no known interactions between Linzess and alcohol.
Does Linzess interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
There are no known interactions between Linzess and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much Linzess?
If you or someone else has used too much Linzess, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Linzess?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Are you currently using Linzess (linaclotide)?
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.