From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Linaclotide typically begins working within the first week of treatment, with some patients experiencing relief from constipation symptoms as early as 24-48 hours after starting the medication. However, the full therapeutic effect may take up to 1-2 weeks to develop. Linaclotide works by increasing intestinal fluid secretion and accelerating transit time through the gut, as shown in studies such as 1, which demonstrated its efficacy in treating chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. The standard dosing is 145 mcg or 290 mcg taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. It's essential to take the medication consistently each day for optimal results. If you don't notice improvement after two weeks of regular use, consult your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your dose or consider alternative treatments. Side effects like diarrhea are common initially but often improve with continued use, as noted in studies like 2 and 3. Linaclotide works differently from bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners by activating guanylate cyclase-C receptors in your intestines, increasing chloride and bicarbonate secretion into the intestinal lumen, which increases intestinal fluid and accelerates transit. Some key points to consider when taking linaclotide include:
- Taking the medication consistently each day for optimal results
- Potential side effects like diarrhea, which often improve with continued use
- The importance of consulting your healthcare provider if you don't notice improvement after two weeks of regular use
- Linaclotide's unique mechanism of action, which sets it apart from other treatments for constipation. Overall, linaclotide is a effective treatment option for chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, with a favorable safety profile, as demonstrated in studies like 4 and 5.