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Lubiprostone
Lubiprostone is commonly prescribed to treat chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. The medicine works by activating chloride channels in the digestive tract, stimulating the movement of food through the intestines. Lubiprostone comes in capsule form and is usually taken twice a day. Potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.
Lubiprostone (Amitiza®) is a prescription medication licensed for the treatment of the following conditions:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation in women
- Chronic idiopathic constipation (long-term constipation with no apparent cause).
(Click What Is Lubiprostone Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with lubiprostone. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the common side effects include but are not limited to:
(Click Side Effects of Lubiprostone to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD