Linaclotide Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 23, 2024.

Usual Adult Dose for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

290 mcg orally once a day

Comments:

• Patients should take this drug on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes prior to the first meal of the day.
• Capsules should be swallowed whole; patients should avoid breaking apart or chewing the capsules.
• Patients with swallowing difficulties may open the capsules and administer orally (in applesauce or water) OR via nasogastric or gastrostomy tube (in water).

Use: Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C)

Usual Adult Dose for Constipation

145 mcg orally once a day

Comments:

• Some patients may be given 72 mcg orally once a day based on individual characteristics and tolerability.
• Patients should take this drug on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes prior to the first meal of the day.
• Capsules should be swallowed whole; patients should avoid breaking apart or chewing the capsules.
• Patients with swallowing difficulties may open the capsules and administer orally (in applesauce or water) OR via nasogastric or gastrostomy tube (in water).

Use: Treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC)

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

• Patients with known/suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction
• Pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age

US BOXED WARNINGS:
RISK OF SERIOUS DEHYDRATION IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS:

• In nonclinical studies in neonatal mice, administration of a single, clinically relevant adult oral dose of this drug caused deaths due to dehydration.
• The safety and effectiveness of this drug have not been established in patients less than 18 years of age.

Recommendations:

• This drug is contraindicated in patients younger than 6 years of age.
• Avoid the use of this drug in patients 6 years to less than 18 years of age.

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years; this drug is not recommended for use in these patients.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug should be taken 30 minutes prior to a meal.

Storage requirements:

• Keep in original bottle to protect from moisture.

Reconstitution/preparation techniques:

• The manufacturer product information should be consulted.

Monitoring:

• GASTROINTESTINAL: Unusual/severe abdominal pain, severe diarrhea

Patient advice:

• Patients should be instructed to seek medical attention for unusual or severe abdominal pain, especially with bright red or black stools.
• Advise patients to speak to their healthcare provider if they become pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the best way to take Linzess?

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer