Amitiza (Lubiprostone)

Description

Amitiza (Lubiprostone) is a medicine that helps people who have chronic constipation. Classified as a chloride channel activator, it works by increasing fluid secretion in the intestines, which softens the stool and makes it easier to have a bowel movement. This medicine is mainly used for adults who have chronic constipation without a clear cause and for women aged 18 and older who have irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). It can also help relieve constipation caused by pain medicines called opioids.

Directions

Amitiza is taken by mouth with a standard dosage of 8 or 24 mcg twice daily depending on the condition being treated. Swallow the capsules whole, without breaking or chewing them, and take them with food and water. In some cases, individuals with certain medical conditions may need a different dosage. For example, patients with liver problems might require a lower dosage. The initial treatment dosage can be adjusted based on tolerability and side effects.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Amitiza is Lubiprostone.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction
• Those with a history of hypersensitivity to Lubiprostone or any of the components of the formulation

Cautions

• Before taking Amitiza, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Nausea is one of the most common side effects with Amitiza. Taking the medication with food may help reduce this feeling. Let your doctor know if the nausea becomes bothersome or persistent.
• Amitiza can cause diarrhea, sometimes severe. If you already have severe diarrhea, this medication may not be right for you. Stop taking Amitiza and call your healthcare provider if you develop severe or long-lasting diarrhea.
• Some people have experienced fainting or a drop in blood pressure, especially within an hour of taking the dose. These effects have sometimes led to hospitalization. They tend to happen more with the 24 mcg twice-daily dose and may occur more easily if you’re also experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you're taking other medications that lower blood pressure. If you feel dizzy or faint, contact your doctor right away.
• A few people have reported trouble breathing or a feeling of chest tightness shortly after taking Amitiza. This usually happens within the first hour of the first dose and often goes away within a few hours—but it may come back with future doses. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any breathing problems while on this medication.
• If you have symptoms that could suggest a bowel blockage (like severe stomach pain, bloating, or vomiting), your doctor may need to check for a blockage before starting Amitiza.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Amitiza include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Headache, flatulence, and dizziness have also been reported, especially in those taking higher doses for chronic idiopathic constipation or opioid-induced constipation. In clinical trials, nausea occurred in up to 29% of patients and was the most frequent reason for stopping the medication. Diarrhea affected about 8% to 12% of users depending on the condition being treated.

Less common but serious side effects include fainting, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and allergic reactions such as rash or throat tightness. Some people also reported vomiting, fatigue, muscle cramps, and changes in liver enzymes. Isolated cases of ischemic colitis and syncope have been noted after approval. Let your healthcare provider know if symptoms are severe or don’t go away.

References

1. Amitiza (Lubiprostone) Product Monograph. Lexington, MA: Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc.; 2020.
2. Amitiza (Lubiprostone) Drug Label Information. Lexington, MA: Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc.; 2024.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....