Key takeaways:
Linzess (linaclotide) helps manage certain types of chronic (long-term) constipation in adults and children ages 6 and older.
Linzess works by increasing fluid in your intestines to help move stool through. It also helps reduce pain and cramping associated with constipation. You should take it on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before your first meal of the day.
Linzess is not a laxative, so it can take a week or more to reach its full effect. And you need to take Linzess every day for it to work properly. But unlike laxatives, Linzess is safe to take long term for chronic constipation.
If you’re dealing with constipation, diet changes and over-the-counter laxatives are often the first treatment options. But in cases of chronic (long-term) constipation, you may need something more. That’s where Linzess comes in.
Linzess (linaclotide) is prescribed for chronic constipation in adults and children ages 6 and older. But how does Linzess work? And how long will it take to feel relief? We’ll answer these and more common questions about Linzess to help you get the most from your medication.
Unlike many other medications, Linzess works directly in your intestines as it passes through your body after you take it. It doesn’t need to be absorbed into your bloodstream first.
Linzess works by raising the levels of a compound called cyclic guanosine monophosphate in your intestines. This seems to have several effects:
It increases the amount of fluid in your intestines. This helps soften stool and move it through your gut.
It reduces muscle cramping in your gut.
It reduces pain sensations in your gut.
These combined effects help relieve constipation and the pain it can cause.
Laxatives work in several ways to produce a bowel movement. Some stimulate the muscles of your intestines to contract. Others help make your stool larger and/or softer to make it easier to pass. But Linzess not only pulls fluid into the intestine to help you pass stool. It also helps reduce the muscle cramps and pain related to constipation.
Another difference is that laxatives are typically best for occasional constipation. You can take them as needed for your symptoms. But most aren’t meant for chronic symptoms. Linzess is approved specifically for chronic constipation because it’s safe and effective for long-term use. But you need to take Linzess every day for it to work properly — not just when symptoms appear.
Good to know: In some cases, you may need to combine laxatives or other constipation medications with Linzess to get the relief you need. But you should do so only with your prescriber’s OK.
In clinical studies, people reported improved pain and constipation symptoms within 1 week of starting Linzess. For those with constipation related to irritable bowel syndrome, it took 6 to 8 weeks for Linzess to reach its full effect. These improvements were also maintained for the 12 to 26 weeks of treatment observed in the studies.
Keep in mind that constipation symptoms can come and go for some people. So it may help to keep track of your symptoms to determine if Linzess is making a difference in the number or severity of episodes you’re experiencing.
Curious about Linzess side effects? Here’s what to expect, how to manage side effects, and when to contact a professional.
Linzess dosages: Learn about the recommended Linzess dosages for adults and how to take it correctly.
IBS flare-ups: Read more about what causes them and how to prevent them.
If you’re not having more frequent bowel movements or improved symptoms within a couple of weeks, tell your prescriber. They may recommend adjustments to your treatment plan or check for other possible causes of your symptoms.
It’s best to take Linzess once a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first meal of the day. Taking Linzess with food, especially a high-fat meal, can increase the chance of diarrhea.
If you have trouble swallowing pills, you can mix the contents of the Linzess capsule in applesauce or water. Just be sure to consume the mixture right away and avoid chewing the medication beads. Your prescriber or pharmacist can give you instructions for doing this safely.
As mentioned, it’s best to take Linzess on an empty stomach. Taking it with food, especially fatty foods, can increase the chance of diarrhea.
Other than that, there aren’t specific foods that interact with Linzess. But some foods can make constipation symptoms worse. That’s why it’s a good idea to make lifestyle changes to help Linzess work its best. This includes:
Increased fiber: Adding fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, and bran flakes to your diet can help make your stools softer and easier to pass.
Avoid trigger foods: Fried foods, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda can be irritating to your stomach and intestines. So it’s a good idea to avoid or limit them. Also, eating big meals can trigger discomfort, so try smaller portions throughout the day instead.
Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is essential for bowel health.
More movement, less stress: Regular exercise and stress-relief practices can help ease chronic constipation symptoms.
Linzess isn’t recommended if you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines. It’s also not recommended if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Linzess is approved for children ages 6 to 17, but it isn’t safe for younger children. It may cause life-threatening dehydration for children under age 2.
Before starting Linzess, your prescriber will review your health history to determine if Linzess is right for you.
Linzess (linaclotide) is a once-daily medication that treats chronic (long-term) constipation in adults and children ages 6 and older. Linzess works by increasing fluid in the intestines to help you pass stool easier. It also helps reduce muscle cramps and pain related to constipation.
Unlike laxatives, Linzess is meant for daily, long-term use, rather than occasional, as-needed relief. And it may take a week or longer for Linzess to reach its full effects. To get the best results, take Linzess once a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating.
Avoiding fried or fatty foods, alcohol, and caffeine can help reduce the discomfort caused by chronic constipation. It can also help reduce the chance of Linzess side effects, such as diarrhea. Talk to your prescriber if you have questions or concerns about Linzess.
Allergan. (2023). Linzess- linaclotide capsule, gelatin coated [package insert].
MedlinePlus. (2023). Linaclotide.
Thomas, R. H., et al. (2013). Linaclotide (Linzess) for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and for chronic idiopathic constipation. Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
Wilkins, T., et al. (2012). Diagnosis and management of IBS in adults. American Family Physician.
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