Zelnorm is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation. This eMedTV segment explores the uses, side effects, and strengths of this prescription drug, and also describes how and when to take it.
A few common side effects of Zelnorm include dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. This eMedTV Web page also covers rare side effects (such as hair loss and vertigo) and side effects to report to your healthcare provider right away (such as vision changes).
Side effects can potentially occur with Zelnorm, and weight gain is not a documented problem. This eMedTV article lists some things you can do if weight gain does become a problem during treatment with Zelnorm (such as getting regular exercise).
This eMedTV page explains that while there are possible side effects of Zelnorm, sexual side effects (such as impotence) haven't been reported. However, this page also explains that it's possible for a drug to cause problems that haven't been reported.
Depression is a rarely reported side effect of Zelnorm. This eMedTV Web page lists possible symptoms of depression (such as a persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood) and explains why it's difficult to know if Zelnorm and depression are linked.
This eMedTV page discusses specific Zelnorm uses, including the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. The medicine is not approved for treating constipation in children or infants.
The suggested Zelnorm dosage for treating IBS with constipation in women is 6 mg twice daily. This eMedTV page also provides information about Zelnorm dosing for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation and general tips on taking the drug.
Oral contraceptives and digoxin are among the drugs that can potentially interact with Zelnorm. But as this eMedTV Web page explains, these Zelnorm drug interactions generally do not cause any problems or require changes in dosages.
Zelnorm can cause severe diarrhea in some people. This eMedTV page also lists other Zelnorm warnings and precautions, such as other possible side effects (like ischemic colitis) and people who shouldn't take the drug (like those with kidney failure).
This part of the eMedTV archives explains that while talking Zelnorm during pregnancy is generally considered safe, you should let your healthcare provider know (before taking the medicine) if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you believe you may have overdosed on Zelnorm. This eMedTV resource lists signs of a Zelnorm overdose (such as dizziness or fainting), as well as overdose treatment options (like fluids through an IV).
A generic for Zelnorm won't be available until at least 2013, when the patent for Zelnorm expires. As this eMedTV page explains, drugs currently sold as "generic Zelnorm" are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous -- and shouldn't be purchased.
Although the Zelnorm recall is still in place, the drug can be prescribed in an emergency situation. This eMedTV page takes an in-depth look at why the medication was recalled and whether the recall will be repealed.
