Lubiprostone - Oral

Lubiprostone helps relieve constipation that persists for a long time with an unknown cause.

This medicine is also used to treat women with irritable bowel syndrome (a long-term disorder of the digestive system that involves a group of symptoms such as abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea) wherein constipation is the predominant symptom.

Lubiprostone may also used to treat constipation in individuals who are taking certain strong painkillers to relieve long-term pain not caused by cancer.

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.

The dose of Lubiprostone will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition.

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.

Alert your doctor if you have existing or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction (a condition where a part of the bowel or intestine is blocked) as Lubiprostone may not be suitable for you.

Inform your doctor if you have moderate to severe liver disease.

Lubiprostone is not intended to be used in men for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome wherein constipation is the predominant symptom.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What lifestyle changes can I make to prevent constipation?

You can adopt some of the following lifestyle changes to help prevent constipation:

• Include high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, whole-grain cereals, and bread in your diet. Add fibre to your diet gradually to help reduce gas and bloating.
• Drink plenty of liquids. Limit caffeine intake, which may worsen symptoms of constipation by causing dehydration.
• Be active and exercise regularly.
• Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.

Lubiprostone may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, stomach wind, indigestion, dry mouth, and tiredness.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• chest pain or tightness, difficulty breathing
• severe diarrhoea
• severe dizziness, passing out

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 strong painkillers, such as methadone.

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.

Protect from light and extreme temperatures.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.