LUBIPROSTONE
In this session, we will be discussing the consumer medication information for lubiprostone, trade name AmitizaTM.
What it’s for & How to take
Lubiprostone is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome associated with constipation as well as a condition known as chronic idiopathic constipation. This type of constipation refers to the infrequent passage of stool that lasts for 3 months or longer, and the cause is not immediately known.
Lubiprostone works by causing an increase in movement of food and waste through the stomach and intestines by increasing intestinal fluid and motility.
Lubiprostone is usually taken with food and a full glass of water twice a day in the morning and evening. This medication comes as a capsule that is meant to be swallowed whole. Do not chew or crush the capsule.
Lubiprostone is available in 2 different dosages. Your dose will be based upon your specific clinical condition and response to therapy. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip it and continue with your normal dose time. Do not take a double dose to make up the missed dose.
Your constipation symptoms may improve within 1 week; however, it may take longer for your irritable bowel symptoms to improve. This medication only treats the symptoms of constipation; it does not treat the condition that caused the problem.
Most Important Warnings
- Lubiprostone has been shown to cause dehydration and death in young mice. This medication should never be given to children less than 6 years of age.
- The safety and efficacy of lubiprostone have not been established for children ages 6-17. Therefore, this medication should be avoided in any patient less than 18 years of age.
Other Warnings & Cautions
- If you stop taking this medication, your symptoms may return. Stop using lubiprostone and call your doctor, if you have ongoing diarrhea, severe stomach pain, or black, bloody, or tarry stool.
- You may have a tightness in your chest or feel short of breath within one hour after taking lubiprostone. This side effect should go away within 3 hours; however, it may occur again with your next dose. Call your doctor if this side effect continues or worsens.
- Let your pharmacist or doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication.
Interactions & Side Effects
- Tell your pharmacist or doctor all your medication allergies so they may determine if lubiprostone is safe for you to take.
- Avoid dangerous drug interactions. Tell your pharmacist or doctor all the other medication you are taking, including over the counter supplements, even if you don’t take them very often.
- Ask your doctor if this medication is safe to take with your current health conditions. Tell your doctor if you have
- persistent nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain, other intestinal issues, or any sudden changes in bowel habits over the past 2 weeks. This medication is not to be used if a bowel obstruction is present.
- While taking lubiprostone, you may feel some excess gas, nausea, cramping or diarrhea. If these or any other unwanted side effects persist, contact your doctor or pharmacist to talk about it with them.
- Call your doctor right away if you have any persistent diarrhea or blood in your stool.
If you have any questions about what you have heard, contact your pharmacist or doctor. This session does not include all the potential interactions or side effects that this medication may cause. Ask your pharmacist how your medication should be stored and how you should dispose of it when you are done taking it. Do not share your medication with anyone, ever. Remember, this is not meant to replace your counseling session with your pharmacist. In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Updated 7/20