Lubiprostone helps relieve constipation that is persisting for a long time with an unknown cause.
This medicine is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (a disorder that involves abdominal pain and changes in bowel movement) wherein constipation is the prevailing symptom.
It is also used to treat constipation in patients who are taking opioids (strong painkillers) to relieve non-cancer pain.
Take Lubiprostone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not break or chew the capsule.
Try to take it at the same time each day.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- existing or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction (a condition where a part of the bowel or intestine is blocked)
- severe diarrhoea
as Lubiprostone may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have moderate to severe liver disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Your doctor may need to perform blood tests to make sure that your liver function is normal before you take this medicine and thereafter depending on your doctor’s advise. Regular monitoring of blood pressure may also be needed.
What lifestyle changes should I make to improve my digestion?
A healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise are keys to helping intestinal bowel functions normally.
Follow a healthy diet plan by eating foods rich in fiber. Some examples of these foods are bran, beans, berries, whole grains, green and leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, squash, and many other things under this category. Reduce intake of foods such as milk, cheese, white rice, white flour, and red meat as they will contribute to constipation.
Constipation is also caused by lack of water in your body and mainly in stool. You should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Restrict the intake of caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee, tea and certain soft drinks.
Engage in physical activity like walking at least 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week. If you have not exercised for a long time, start with light exercises such as slow walks. You will find that keeping to a regular exercise regimen is enjoyable and helps not only your muscles but also it stimulates the natural contraction of your intestines, making it easier to pass out your stool in your body. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise would be suitable for you.
Lubiprostone may cause any of the following side effects: diarrhoea, nausea, fainting or fall in blood pressure, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast heartbeat, abdominal pain or discomfort, stomach wind, indigestion or gastric discomfort, vomiting, constipation, unpleasant taste, uncontrollable bowel movement, swelling, tiredness and weakness, muscle pain, excessive sweating, weight gain, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache, cough and throat pain.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- methadone (medicine used to relieve moderate to severe pain)
- levomethadone (medicine used to prevent withdrawal symptoms in individuals who are addicted to strong painkillers)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Lubiprostone.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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