Linzess and Coffee: A Risky Mix or No Big Deal?

Linzess (linaclotide) is an oral medication that helps relieve constipation from certain health conditions. It’s FDA approved to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) for adults. It’s also approved to treat functional constipation for kids ages 6 to 17 years old.

No matter why you’re taking Linzess, it’s common to take your dose first thing in the morning. It works quickly, though, so it has the potential to affect your morning routine. This is especially true if you like to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning.

Linzess and coffee both affect your digestive system. So it helps to know if you can take them together. Below, we’ll discuss whether Linzess and coffee are safe to combine. Plus, we’ll cover what side effects to watch for.

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Can you consume Linzess and coffee?

Yes, you can drink coffee while taking Linzess. This is also true for espresso drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and cortados. 

Linzess and coffee don’t directly interact. Both products stimulate your digestive system, though. Taking them together could raise your risk of side effects. More on this later.

Good to know: Linzess works by making it easier to go to the bathroom. It does so by pulling fluid into your intestines. This softens your stool and helps it pass through your intestines faster. 

How long should you wait between taking Linzess and drinking coffee?

You should wait at least 30 minutes after taking Linzess before you drink coffee. Linzess works best when taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. Drinking coffee too soon can upset your stomach.

What side effects should you watch for with Linzess and coffee?

It’s important to know what to expect while taking this prescription-only oral capsule. Common Linzess side effects to watch for include:

• Diarrhea

• Stomach pain

• Having gas

• Stomach bloating

Side effects like these may be stronger or more likely to happen if you drink coffee while taking Linzess. This is because both can affect your digestive system, and side effects can become more uncomfortable when they’re paired together.

While most side effects are mild, some can be more serious. Contact a healthcare professional right away if you notice bloody or black stools that look like tar. You should also reach out if you experience severe or persistent diarrhea or are feeling dehydrated.

Who shouldn’t drink coffee while taking Linzess?

Some people should avoid coffee altogether while taking Linzess. You might want to skip coffee if:

• You experience diarrhea when taking Linzess.

• You frequently feel urges to rush to the bathroom after drinking coffee.

• You get stomach pains or cramps when you drink coffee.

• You feel nauseated often.

• You experience new or worsening heartburn.

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• What to sip: Read about the best things to drink if you’re having diarrhea, alongside drinks to avoid.

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• Why movement might help: Learn how regular exercise can help address IBS and keep your symptoms better managed.

This combination might not be the best for you if you experience any of these issues. You might want to try other beverages that are easier on the stomach.

Coffee alternatives to consider with Linzess

If coffee upsets your stomach while taking Linzess, there are other drinks you can try instead.

• Herbal teas: Common examples are chamomile, ginger, and peppermint teas. They usually don’t have caffeine and might help calm your stomach.

• Decaffeinated (decaf) coffee: This is a potential option if you want to enjoy the taste of coffee without the caffeine. Half-caffeinated (half-caf) coffee is another option to consider.

• Lemon water: Some people find that drinking warm lemon water helps with digestion.

• Certain dairy products: Some people find warm, low-fat milk enticing and are able to tolerate it well. Soy milk, oat milk, or lactose-free milk are also good options if you’re lactose intolerant.

These drinks are usually gentle on the stomach and can still offer a warm and cozy start to your day.

What foods and drinks should you limit or avoid with Linzess?

If you take Linzess, there are several foods and drinks you should try to avoid.

High-fat foods

High-fat foods can take longer for your stomach to break down. Eating fatty foods on a daily basis can cause loose stools and more trips to the bathroom. Try to avoid things like fast food, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products.

You should take Linzess on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating a meal. When you do eat, try to keep your meals relatively light and low in fat. Low-fat foods, along with meals rich in fiber and carbohydrates, break down quickly. If you’re not sure what foods would be best for you, speak to a dietitian, your GI specialist, or your primary care provider.

Caffeine

Drinks such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks often contain caffeine. Some sodas can also contain it. The FDA recommends most people limit their caffeine intake to 400 mg per day. This is equivalent to about two to three 12 oz cups of coffee. However, it’s a good idea to consume even less than that if you’re experiencing side effects from Linzess.

If you do consume caffeine, be cautious. Both caffeine and Linzess can speed up your digestive system. They each can cause side effects such as stomach pain, cramps, or diarrhea. And combining the two can make these side effects even more likely or severe.

Caffeine can also have a diuretic effect, generally speaking. This means it can make you urinate (pee) more often. However, if you consume caffeine regularly, this effect is likely minimal.

Alcohol 

You should limit or avoid drinking alcohol while taking Linzess. This includes beer, wine, and liquor. Alcohol can irritate your stomach and worsen side effects. And, like caffeine, alcohol can make you urinate more often.

To stay safe and prevent discomfort, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol. But if you want to know if you can have an occasional drink, talk to a healthcare professional. They can help you decide what’s safe and what’s not.

Tips for balancing Linzess with your morning routine

If you take Linzess, the way you start your morning can make a big difference in the quality of your day.

Consider incorporating tips like these to help balance your morning routine:

• Take Linzess first thing in the morning with a full glass of water.

• Wait at least 30 minutes before eating breakfast (or drinking coffee).

• Eat a light breakfast that is low in fat, such as fruit, oatmeal, or whole grain toast.

• Give yourself time to use the bathroom before leaving the house.

• Wake up earlier to avoid feeling rushed, even if it’s just a few minutes.

How to save on Linzess

There are ways to save on Linzess. GoodRx can help you navigate ways to save on your prescription.

• Save with a copay savings card. If you have commercial insurance and meet eligibility requirements, Linzess’ price is as little as $30 using a savings card from the manufacturer.

• Save with patient assistance programs. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for Linzess’ patient assistance program, which offers the medication free of charge.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Arnisha Carter, PharmD, BCPS

Arnisha Carter, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist in Florida. She’s worked in the pharmacy industry for more than 10 years and began writing for GoodRx in 2024.

Edited by:

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS, is a licensed pharmacist in Arizona, Colorado, and Rhode Island. He has worked in the pharmacy industry for more than 10 years and currently serves as a pharmacy editor for GoodRx.

Reviewed by:

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed in New York and Massachusetts.

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