Amitiza (Lubiprostone)

What is Amitiza?

Amitiza (lubiprostone) belongs to a class of drugs called chloride channel activators.

What is Amitiza used for?

Amitiza is indicated for the treatment of certain types of constipation such as chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. It may also help improve stool texture, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and reduce the need to strain.

How does Amitiza work?

Amitiza works by increasing the amount of fluid within the intestines, which helps clear the passage of stools.

How to use Amitiza

Amitiza should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts can cause health problems.

The medicine can be taken orally with food and water or as prescribed by the doctor. Make sure that you do not break or chew the medicine. Swallow it whole. One must take the medicine regularly without any gap. You must inform the doctor if you face any kind of problem after taking the medicine.

Amitiza warnings and precautions

Before taking Amitiza, inform your doctor if you are suffering from any allergy or if you have a blockage in your digestive tract. People suffering from severe diarrhea should also not consume this drug.

Prior to using Amitiza, inform your doctor if you have a medical history of hernia, Crohn’s disease, gallstones, impacted bowel movement, Hirschsprung's disease, polyps, diverticulitis, or any other reason for obstruction in the digestive system.

Do not take alcohol as the medicine might react. Do not drive as it makes you dizzy.

Amitiza is not recommended during pregnancy. It is also not recommended for lactating mothers as it can pass into breast milk and may cause harm to a nursing infant.

What do I do if I have missed a Amitiza dose?

If you miss a dose, you can take it as soon as you remember.  If it is time for next dose, you can skip the missed dose and continue with your regular scheduled dose. Never take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Amitiza overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Amitiza, you should seek urgent medical help.

Amitiza interactions

Before taking Amitiza always let your doctor know about all your prior medicines and ongoing medicines. Some drugs can interact with Amitiza, if taken in tandem with it so it is necessary to check with the doctor.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Amitiza side effects

Minor Side effects of Amitiza include headache, dizziness, pain in the joints or muscles, trouble sleeping, nausea, diarrhea, gas, vomiting, dry mouth, runny nose, cough, and fever. Since these are minor side effects, these will fade away soon.

Serious side effects from Amitiza include severe diarrhea, swelling of arms and legs, mental or mood changes. If you witness any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. Other side effects could be skin rash, itching or swelling, and severe dizziness.

Infrequently it may cause trouble in breathing and tightness in chest within an hour of first dosage. This might continue for three hours at times. The reaction could be there with other doses too. Immediate medical attention must be sought since the patient might not be able to tell all symptoms.

This is not a complete list of possible Amitiza side effects.  If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.