Lubiprostone (By mouth)
loo-bi-PROST-one
Treats constipation. Also treats irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation in women. This medicine is a stool softener.
Drug classes
Laxative (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Lubiprostone is used to treat chronic constipation in adults. It is also used to treat constipation caused by opioid (narcotic) medicines in adults with chronic, non-cancer pain. This medicine works by increasing intestinal fluid secretion, which helps ease the passage of stool and helps relieve the symptoms associated with constipation.
Lubiprostone is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women who have constipation as the main symptom.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Take this medicine with food and water. This will help lessen the chance of nausea.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
If a dose is missed:
Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Make sure your doctor knows if you also use methadone (Dolophine®).
When Not To Use
Do not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to lubiprostone, or if you have a history of a stomach or bowel blockage.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea, or a sudden change in bowel movements.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Severe diarrhea, stomach pain or swelling
Severe nausea or vomiting
Trouble breathing
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Mild nausea
Passing gas
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Amitiza
There may be other brand names for this medicine.