Linaclotide capsules

About linaclotide

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder. Symptoms can be quite variable, and can come and go. Typical symptoms include tummy (abdominal) pain, bloating, and bouts of constipation and/or diarrhoea. Linaclotide can be useful for people who have constipation as one of the main symptoms of IBS. It helps to increase bowel secretions and movement, making stools easier to pass, and it also helps to ease pain and discomfort.

Before taking linaclotide

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking linaclotide it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you are so constipated that you think you may have a blockage.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take linaclotide capsules

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. It will give you more information about linaclotide and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take linaclotide exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is taken once daily. You can take your dose at a time of day that suits you, but try to take it at around the same time of day, each day.

• Swallow the capsule whole with a drink of water. It is best taken on an empty stomach (which means at least 30 minutes before food). This is because taking the capsules with food increases the possibility that diarrhoea will occur.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the forgotten dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.

• A healthy diet containing fibre (wholegrain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) with several glasses of water each day and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function.

• You can read our leaflet called Fibre and Fibre Supplements for advice on ways to increase the amount of fibre in your diet.

Can linaclotide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with linaclotide. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you notice any bleeding from your back passage whilst taking linaclotide, let your doctor know. This could be due to piles (haemorrhoids) caused by your constipation or due to the treatment itself.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store linaclotide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light. The capsules can absorb moisture from the air so it is important to keep them in their original container (which contains a desiccant to keep them dry). Do not keep the capsules for longer than 18 weeks after the container is first opened.

Important information about all medicines