About the introduction of lubiprostone

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain types of constipation (chronic idiopathic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome with constipation). Chronic idiopathic constipation has an unknown cause and is not due to diet, other diseases, or drugs.

Lubiprostone is also used to treat constipation caused by narcotic (opiate-type) medications in people with ongoing pain due to medical conditions other than cancer.

This medication may improve symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort, improve stool texture, lessen the need to strain, and decrease the feeling of not completely relieving oneself. Lubiprostone belongs to a class of drugs known as chloride channel activators. It works by increasing the amount of fluid within your intestines, making the passage of stool easier.

How to use Lubiprostone Capsule

Take this medication by mouth with food and water as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Swallow the medication whole. Do not break or chew the medication.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same times each day.

You should talk to your doctor regularly about whether you still need this treatment.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

Nausea, diarrhea, gas, vomiting, dry mouth, runny nose, cough, fever, headache, joint/back pain, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: swelling of arms/legs, mental/mood changes.

This medication may cause low blood pressure and possibly fainting. Diarrhea and vomiting may increase the risk of theseside effects. Stop taking this medication and tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: fainting, dizziness, severe diarrhea/vomiting.

Lubiprostone may rarely cause trouble breathing and chest tightness within 30 to 60 minutes after the first dose. This reaction is usually not serious and generally goes away within 3 hours. It may happen again with other doses. However, you may not be able to tell this reaction apart from a rare, severe reaction that also causes trouble breathing and/or chest pain. Therefore, get medical help right away if you develop any trouble breathing or chest tightness/discomfort/pain.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

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

Precautions

Before taking lubiprostone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain stomach/intestinal problems (blockage, severe diarrhea), liver disease.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk, but it may have undesirable effects (such as causing diarrhea) on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

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