Linaclotide (Linzess): A Treatment for IBS and Constipation
Linaclotide is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs called guanylate cyclase-C agonists. It is sold under the brand name Linzess in the US and Mexico, and as Constella elsewhere. It is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic constipation with no known cause (CIC) in adults, and functional constipation (FC) in children and adolescents 6 to 17 years of age.
Linaclotide works by stimulating a protein called GC-C, which is located on the surface of the intestine. This protein increases fluid secretion, which softens stools and stimulates bowel movements. Linaclotide may also reduce abdominal pain by blocking pain signals in the gut.
How to Use Linaclotide
Linaclotide is taken by mouth once a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. The dose depends on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, broken, or opened.
Linaclotide may cause diarrhea, especially in the first two weeks of treatment. This may lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes. Patients should drink plenty of fluids and contact their doctor if they have severe or persistent diarrhea, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, weakness, or dry mouth.
Linaclotide should not be used by people who have a blockage in their intestines, or who are allergic to linaclotide or any of its ingredients. It should not be given to children younger than 2 years of age, as it can cause fatal dehydration. It is not known if linaclotide is safe and effective in children younger than 6 years of age with FC, or in children younger than 18 years of age with IBS-C.
Linaclotide may interact with other medications, herbs, or supplements. Patients should tell their doctor about all the products they use before starting linaclotide. Linaclotide may affect the absorption of some oral medications, so they should be taken at least an hour before or four hours after linaclotide.
Linaclotide has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Patients should inform their doctor if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if they are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Price Comparison of Linaclotide in Different Countries
| Country | Price | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $7.32 | GoodRx |
| Mexico | $5.67 | Farmacia San Pablo |
| Canada | $4.28 | PharmacyChecker |
| UK | $3.76 | Pharmacy2U |
| Australia | $3.54 | NPS MedicineWise |
| India | $1.21 | MedPlusMart |
| UAE | $0.98 | Life Pharmacy |
Top 5 Global Brands of Linaclotide
- Linzess: The brand name of linaclotide in the US and Mexico, marketed by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals and Allergan.
- Constella: The brand name of linaclotide in Europe, Canada, Australia, and other countries, marketed by Almirall and Allergan.
- Truberzi: The brand name of linaclotide in Japan, marketed by Astellas Pharma.
- Linzera: The brand name of linaclotide in China, marketed by AstraZeneca.
- Linzess M: The brand name of linaclotide in South Korea, marketed by JW Pharmaceutical.
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