Amitiza is a medication that increases the intestinal secretion of fluids making it useful for the treatment of constipation in adults.
It is a chloride channel activator and contains the active drug lubiprostone.
Generic name: lubiprostone
Brand name: Amitiza
Uses of Amitiza
It is used to treat constipation in adults. These include:
- chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC)
- irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in females
- opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in people taking opioid drugs for long-lasting pain that’s not related to cancer
How to Take Amitiza
Amitiza is taken twice a day. Read all drug guides or instruction sheets and follow all instructions on your prescription label. Take with food and plenty of water. Do not crush, chew, break, or open the capsule.
Within an hour after taking Amitiza, you may have chest tightness or shortness of breath. This adverse effect should subside in 3 hours, but it may reappear when you take your next dose. If this side effect becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor.
If you have severe diarrhea, avoid using Amitiza. For more information, contact your doctor. Your doctor will need to check in on you on a frequent basis to see how you’re doing.
Heat and light should be avoided when storing at room temperature.
Side Effects
The following side effects can be associated with taking Amitiza. They include mild and severe side effects.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information on any potential adverse effects. They can provide you with advice on how to deal with any unpleasant side effects.
Mild side effects include:
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- nausea
- flatulence and bloating
- headache
- dizziness
- trouble breathing
Severe side effects include:
- allergic reaction
- severe gastrointestinal upset
- low blood pressure
Severe side effects are uncommon, but they can happen. If you experience any major side effects, contact your doctor at once. If your symptoms are life-threatening or you believe you’re having a medical emergency, dial 911 or your local emergency number.
Precautions
If you have a blockage in your digestive tract or severe diarrhea, you should not use Amitiza. If you feel light-headed or have severe diarrhea every time you take Amitiza, stop taking medication and call your doctor.
If a mother takes Amitiza while breastfeeding, the baby may experience diarrhea. If you’re breastfeeding a baby, let your doctor know, and let him or her know if the baby has diarrhea.
You may have chest tightness or shortness of breath within 1 hour of taking this medicine. This side effect should go away in 3 hours, but it could happen again if you take another dose. If this side effect becomes bothersome, speak with your doctor.
If you get severe or persistent nausea or diarrhea, call your doctor right away.
