What Is Amitiza?

Amitiza is the brand name for the generic drug lubiprostone, which works as a chloride channel activator. The ingredients of Amitiza include: lubiprostone (active ingredient), D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Red No. 40, gelatin, medium-chain triglycerides, purified water and sorbitol. Amitiza is used as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (with constipation) in women over the age of 18, and chronic idiopathic constipation in adults. Amitiza works by causing the intestines to secrete more fluids. This helps to improve the movement of the intestinal muscles and facilitate bowel movements.

Types

• Amitiza capsules are available in the following dosages: 8 mcg twice daily (pink capsule) and 24 mcg twice daily (orange capsule). The 8 mcg twice-daily dose is used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation in females over the age of 18. The 24 mcg twice-daily dose is used in the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation in adults.

Before Taking Amitiza

• People who suffer from a severe case of diarrhea or have a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract should not take Amitiza. Consult your doctor if you have suffered from any of the following conditions (that can cause obstructions in the digestive tract) in the past: Crohn's disease, hernia, diverticulitis, gallstones, Hirschsprung's disease, impacted bowel movement or polyps.

How to Take Amitiza

• You should swallow the Amitiza capsules, and never chew or crush them. Always take Amitiza capsules with a meal, or at least some milk.

  Do not worry if you feel a shortness of breath or tightness in the chest during the first hour after taking Amitiza. It can take up to three hours for these effects to go away. Immediately contact your doctor if these symptoms get worse or last longer than three hours.

Side Effects

• The most common side effects of Amitiza include nausea, mild diarrhea and stomach pain. You should immediately contact your doctor if any of these side effects become severe. Other mild side effects of Amitiza include: appetite loss, anxiety, cough, headache, joint pain and swollen hands or feet. If you experience side effects other than those mentioned here, immediately contact your doctor or visit an emergency room.

Overdose

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is time for the next one. You should not take more than the dose recommended by your doctor because it can result in an overdose. Some of the symptoms of an Amitiza overdose include: lightheadedness, abdominal pain, breathing problems, diarrhea, vomiting, hot flashes and fainting.

Warning

• The FDA classifies Amitiza as a pregnancy category C drug, which means that it may be damaging to an unborn fetus. Pregnant women or women who become pregnant while on Amitiza should consult a doctor about future use.