Linzess (Linaclotide)

Do's

• Before starting Linzess or getting a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions.
• The dosage of Linzess is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow the prescribed dosage as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal. Swallow the capsules whole; do not break or chew them unless instructed otherwise.
• If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, there are alternative methods of administration. The capsule's contents may be mixed with applesauce or water. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully on how to administer the medication using these alternative methods.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. It's advisable to take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
• Keep your healthcare provider informed about your condition and response to the medication, particularly if your condition does not improve or worsens.
• For patients who require administration through a tube into the stomach (nasogastric or gastric tube), ask your healthcare provider for detailed instructions on how to administer Linzess in this manner.
• Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider, and do not change the dosage or administration without consulting them first.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea, which can sometimes be severe and often begins within the first 2 weeks of treatment.
• Gas
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Swelling, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen (distension) 

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe or ongoing diarrhea
• Diarrhea with dizziness or a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out)
• Unusual or severe stomach-area (abdomen) pain, especially if accompanied by bright red, bloody stools or black stools that look like tar

If you have any specific questions about your risk of certain side effects from Linzess, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

Linzess is contraindicated in patients less than 2 years of age. 

Severe diarrhea, although reported in a small percentage of patients, can occur during treatment with Linzess. Stop taking Linzess and contact a healthcare provider if severe diarrhea is experienced, especially if accompanied by unusual or severe abdominal pain, and/or in combination with hematochezia or melena.

Accidental ingestion of Linzess in children, especially in patients less than 2 years of age, may result in severe diarrhea and dehydration. Patients should be instructed to store Linzess securely and out of reach of children and to dispose of unused Linzess.

The information provided is not intended to cover all warnings and precautions of Linzess. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.