Amitiza may be prescribed to treat IBS with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation. This eMedTV Web article features a complete overview of Amitiza, including information on how the drug works, possible side effects, and dosing guidelines.
Headaches, nausea, and diarrhea are among the most commonly reported side effects of Amitiza. This eMedTV Web page takes a closer look at possible Amitiza side effects, including those that should be reported to your healthcare provider right away.
People who have certain bowel movement problems may benefit from Amitiza. This eMedTV page further explains what Amitiza is used for, including information on how it works and whether it is safe for children. Off-label Amitiza uses are also discussed.
The suggested Amitiza dosage for treating IBS with constipation in women is 8 mcg twice daily. This eMedTV page also provides information about Amitiza dosing for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and general tips on taking the drug.
At this time, there are no known Amitiza drug interactions. However, as this selection from the eMedTV Web site explains, Amitiza has not been tested with all other drugs, so there may be interactions with Amitiza that have not yet been discovered.
Amitiza may cause nausea and severe diarrhea in some people. This eMedTV Web resource outlines other important Amitiza warnings and precautions, including information on what to tell your doctor before starting treatment with the medication.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you have overdosed on Amitiza (lubiprostone). This eMedTV article lists potential symptoms of an Amitiza overdose, such as vomiting or fainting, as well as possible treatment options that are available.
This eMedTV page explains that it is not known if Amitiza (lubiprostone) is safe for pregnant women. This page also discusses the results of animal studies involving Amitiza and pregnancy, and covers why the drug has a pregnancy Category C rating.
This eMedTV page explains why the manufacturer of Amitiza (lubiprostone) recommends that women avoid the drug while breastfeeding. Amitiza has not been studied in women who are nursing, and it is not known what problems it may cause in nursing infants.
A generic form of Amitiza (lubiprostone) may not be available until 2011, when the patent expires. This eMedTV Web segment discusses various circumstances that may extend or shorten the period before generic Amitiza products will be available.