What should I do about the dizziness I'm experiencing while taking Linzess (linaclotide)?

Managing Dizziness While Taking Linzess (Linaclotide)

Dizziness you're experiencing while taking Linzess is likely a side effect related to the medication's potential to cause severe diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. You should temporarily suspend Linzess and focus on rehydration until symptoms resolve.

Understanding the Cause of Dizziness with Linzess

• Dizziness is a documented post-marketing adverse effect of Linzess (linaclotide) that is typically associated with severe diarrhea, hypotension, syncope, and electrolyte abnormalities (hypokalemia and hyponatremia) 1
• In clinical trials and post-marketing experience, severe diarrhea requiring hospitalization or intravenous fluid administration has been reported in patients taking Linzess 1
• Diarrhea is the most common adverse reaction in patients taking Linzess, occurring in approximately 20% of patients with IBS-C compared to 3% of placebo-treated patients 1

Immediate Management Steps

• Temporarily suspend Linzess dosing if you're experiencing severe diarrhea with dizziness, as recommended in the FDA drug label 1
• Focus on rehydration with oral fluids containing electrolytes to counteract fluid and electrolyte losses 1
• Monitor for worsening symptoms such as increased dizziness, fainting (syncope), or signs of dehydration like decreased urination or extreme thirst 1
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe dizziness, fainting, or signs of significant dehydration 1

When to Restart Medication

• Only resume Linzess after dizziness and diarrhea have completely resolved and you are adequately rehydrated 1
• Consider discussing with your healthcare provider about potentially reducing your dose when restarting 1
• In clinical trials, 29% of patients required dose reduction or temporary suspension due to adverse reactions, primarily diarrhea 1

Prevention Strategies for Future Use

• Take Linzess on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day to potentially reduce side effects 1
• Ensure adequate hydration throughout the day, especially when taking Linzess 1
• Avoid medications that might worsen diarrhea when taking Linzess 1
• Consider discussing alternative dosing with your healthcare provider - Linzess comes in multiple strengths (72 mcg, 145 mcg, and 290 mcg) 1

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
  • Severe or persistent dizziness 1
  • Signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination) 1
  • Fainting or near-fainting episodes 1
  • Severe or persistent diarrhea 1
  • Symptoms that don't improve with temporary discontinuation and rehydration 1

Long-term Considerations

• If dizziness and severe diarrhea recur after restarting Linzess, your healthcare provider may need to:
  • Consider a permanent dose reduction 1
  • Evaluate for alternative treatments for your condition 1
  • Assess for any underlying conditions that might be exacerbating these side effects 1

Remember that while dizziness is a recognized side effect of Linzess related to its potential to cause diarrhea and subsequent dehydration, your symptoms should be taken seriously and addressed promptly to prevent complications.