Why is Linzess dangerous?
All medicines can be dangerous. Linzess is a prescription medicine and it has its Pros and Cons. It is indicated for the treatment of chronic constipation and individuals with constipation-dominant IBS.
Because it relieves constipation, one of the side effects can be diarrhea. Diarrhea can occur with any of the medications that are used to treat constipation.
Linzess has a potent laxative effects. It can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration.
In children younger than 6 years of age, diarrhea and dehydration can lead to kidney damage and death.
Because of its strong laxative effects, it is considered dangerous. Hence, it should be taken only if prescribed by a doctor.
In addition, when starting Linzess treatment for constipation or IBS-C, the initial dose should be the lowest possible. After a few days, if no clinical improvement is noted, the dose should be titrated upwards until the maximum recommended dose is achieved.
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When can Linzess be dangerous?
Linzess (Linaclotide) can be dangerous in children and frail elderly individuals because of the increased risk of dehydration.
Linaclotide can have serious side effects in individuals who are using other medications like Miralax, Lactulose, or any other laxative.
Laxatives should be stopped when initiating treatment with Linzess.
If a person develops diarrhea or dehydration, water pills such as furosemide and thiazide diuretics should also be stopped.
Lastly, patients with intestinal inflammation or inflammatory bowel disease may develop severe cramps and toxicity with Linzess. It is important to have the correct diagnosis of IBS rather than IBD before starting Linzess treatment.
Linzess relieves spasms and pain only in patients who have constipation and IBS. If a person develops diarrhea, the pain and spasms will worsen because of increased intestinal motility.
Other Side Effects of Linzess:
Linzess can cause electrolyte abnormalities which can be lethal in patients at risk of cardiac arrhythmias. It may cause hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemiamia.
Apart from that, like all other medications, it can have idiosyncratic reactions such as hypersensitivity reactions which can manifest as a rash, hypotension, and angioedema.
Overall;
Linzess is a safe medicine compared to most laxatives. However, in high-risk individuals, it can result in serious side effects including diarrhea, pain, cramps, and dehydration.
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