What is Linzess: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan. 13, 2021  •  Published Dec. 30, 2020

Linzess overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Linzess

Generic Names:

  • Linzess

Uses:

  • Treats irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic idiopathic constipation.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Gastrointestinal Agent

Forms:

  • Capsule

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What form(s) does Linzess come in

  • Capsule

What are common Linzess doses?

  • Bottle 30 Capsules

Common Linzess prescriptions

  • Linzess
    30 capsules of 145mcg bottle

  • Linzess
    30 capsules of 290mcg bottle

  • Linzess
    30 capsules of 72mcg bottle

How to take Linzess

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast or your first meal of the day.

  • Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

  • Missed dose: Skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in the original bottle until you are ready to use it. The bottle contains a desiccant packet that helps protect the capsules from moisture. Do not remove the packet from the bottle.

  • If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you may mix the contents with applesauce or water.To mix with applesauce: Open the capsule and sprinkle the beads on 1 teaspoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing. Do not store it for later use.To mix with water: Open the capsule and sprinkle the beads into a cup with 30 mL (1 ounce) of water. Gently swirl for at least 10 seconds. Swallow the entire mixture immediately. Add another 30 mL (1 ounce) of water to the cup and swirl. Drink the water right away to make sure all of the medicine is taken. Do not store it for later use.The water mixture may also be used with a nasogastric or gastric feeding tube. After the mixture is given, flush the tube with an additional 10 mL (2 teaspoons) of water.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you may mix the contents with applesauce or water.To mix with applesauce: Open the capsule and sprinkle the beads on 1 teaspoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing. Do not store it for later use.To mix with water: Open the capsule and sprinkle the beads into a cup with 30 mL (1 ounce) of water. Gently swirl for at least 10 seconds. Swallow the entire mixture immediately. Add another 30 mL (1 ounce) of water to the cup and swirl. Drink the water right away to make sure all of the medicine is taken. Do not store it for later use.The water mixture may also be used with a nasogastric or gastric feeding tube. After the mixture is given, flush the tube with an additional 10 mL (2 teaspoons) of water.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in the original bottle until you are ready to use it. The bottle contains a desiccant packet that helps protect the capsules from moisture. Do not remove the packet from the bottle.

  • Missed dose: Skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

  • Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

  • Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast or your first meal of the day.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

Linzess contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to linaclotide, or if you have a bowel or stomach blockage.

Linzess warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other stomach or bowel problems.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Linzess interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other stomach or bowel problems.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Linzess side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

  • Bloody or black, tarry stools

  • Severe diarrhea or stomach pain

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild diarrhea