Zelnorm Warnings and Precautions

There are a number of conditions that you should let your healthcare provider know about before you take Zelnorm, including frequent diarrhea; kidney disease or failure (renal failure); and any allergies you may have. Among the people who should not take Zelnorm are those with severe kidney or liver problems, those who are allergic to Zelnorm or any of its components, and those who have ever had a bowel obstruction or gallbladder disease. Some other Zelnorm warnings and precautions to be aware of include potential drug interactions and the risk of very severe diarrhea or ischemic colitis in some people taking this medicine.

Zelnorm Information

Zelnorm: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Zelnorm^® (tegaserod maleate) if you have:

Kidney disease or failure (renal failure)
Liver disease or failure, including cirrhosis
Frequent diarrhea
A history of a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage
A history of gallbladder disease, including gallstones
A history of abdominal adhesions
Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also let your healthcare provider know if you:

Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
Are breastfeeding.

It is also important to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

In March 2007, Zelnorm was taken off the market in the United States because it was shown to increase the risk for a heart attack, angina, or stroke. In July 2007, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Zelnorm will be available to people who meet certain criteria through a special program called a "treatment IND" (see Zelnorm Recall for more information). However, as of April 2, 2008, Zelnorm is no longer available under the treatment IND program, although it may still be available in certain emergency situations.

(Zelnorm Warnings and Precautions Continued: Page 2)