Linzess is an oral medication approved by the FDA in 2012 to treat three main types of constipation:

• IBS with constipation (IBS-C) in adults: IBS-C causes abdominal discomfort, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.

• Chronic idiopathic constipation in adults: This term refers to long-term constipation without a known cause.

• Functional constipation in children over 6 years old: This means constipation is unexplained by any medical issue.

Linzess helps relieve constipation in several ways:

• Softens and loosens stool for easier passage
• Speeds up food transit through the intestines
• Reduces discomfort associated with constipation

For those considering Linzess, medication cost can be an essential factor in your decision. The good news is that reputable online Canadian pharmacies like Canadian Med Center offer medication at significant savings. Purchasing from an online Canadian pharmacy can reduce costs by up to 90% compared to U.S. prices.

Linzess provides relief from constipation by targeting the gut. Its active ingredient, linaclotide, activates guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) receptors in the intestines.

When you take Linzess, the linaclotide travels to the intestines and binds to GC-C receptors, turning them on. This receptor activation triggers the release of ions like chloride and bicarbonate from the intestinal lining. These ions attract water, softening stool and promoting bowel movements.

An additional benefit is that linaclotide calms nerves in the gut that sense pain, helping to reduce discomfort in the intestines.

Many people experience temporary side effects when first starting Linzess, though most find they are mild and improve over time. Linzess works by increasing fluid in the intestines and stimulating intestinal contractions, which can lead to some initial discomfort as your body adjusts.

Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Stomach pain

Loose, watery stools and increased bowel movements can occur as Linzess draws more fluid into the intestines. This added fluid, along with stronger muscle contractions in the intestines, may also lead to passing more gas. These changes in the intestines can cause stomach pain.

When taking Linzess, working closely with your doctor to find the right dosage is important. Linzess comes in capsules of 72 mcg, 145 mcg, and 290 mcg. The dose you're prescribed depends on the condition being treated:

• Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C): 290 mcg once daily
• Chronic idiopathic constipation in adults: 145 mcg or 72 mcg once daily
• Functional constipation in children above six years of age: 72 mcg once daily

What is Linzess used for?

Linzess is an oral medication that treats constipation for the following conditions:

• Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C)
• Chronic idiopathic constipation in adults
• Functional constipation in children above six years of age

What if I miss a dose of Linzess?

If you forget to take a dose of Linzess, skip that dose and continue with your next scheduled dose. Do not double up or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.

Linzess is most effective when regularly taken every day as prescribed by your doctor. If you stop taking Linzess, your constipation symptoms are likely to return within a week. Linzess is not meant to be used on an as-needed basis, like some over-the-counter laxatives. 

How do I take Linzess?

It's best to take your Linzess dose first thing in the morning, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. Taking it while your stomach is empty allows the drug to work effectively. If you take Linzess after a heavy or fatty meal, it may cause looser stools.

Be sure to swallow the Linzess capsule whole. Do not crush or chew it. If you have difficulty swallowing pills, check with your pharmacist about mixing the contents into applesauce or water and consuming it immediately.

Consistency is key when it comes to managing constipation with Linzess. Make sure to take it every day, not just when you experience symptoms. Unlike laxatives that can be used as needed, Linzess works best when taken daily.

How long does it take for Linzess to work?

Many people start to experience relief from their constipation symptoms within the first week of taking Linzess. Over the following 4 to 12 weeks of continuous use, you may notice several gradual improvements, such as:

• Less frequent constipation
• Softer stools
• Less straining
• Less abdominal discomfort
• Less bloating

It’s important to understand that Linzess must be taken regularly to provide continuous constipation relief. If you stop taking Linzess, your constipation symptoms are likely to return within one week.