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My husband has been on Linzess for about two months but so far we have not had good results. He has a history of constipation, but he also has moderate kidney disease so some things he cannot take. He also has to take iron supplements which work against him. Since he has been on the Linzess, he goes days with no bowel movement then suddenly has explosive diarrhea. As he says, he is then wiped out for hours. He takes the Linzess according to directions—30 minutes before breakfast—then has to stay home until it hits. I am wondering if a probiotic would work better. Also I don’t think he gets enough fiber or exercise, but I try not to make too many suggestions. He is on 145 mg of Linzess. Started on 72mg over a month ago and moved up when it didn’t help. I would have to say that he has not been helped by Linzess. Going to see what the doctor says next. He is only going to kidney doctor and primary care now. He had a colonoscopy two years ago and things were ok, but may be time to see him again. Any suggestions welcome.
Replies to "My husband has been on Linzess for about two months but so far we have not..."
When I went to pick up my Rx for Linzess I learned that a 90 day supply would cost $565 after insurance (Part D). So my PCP prescribed Amitiza (don't know the cost yet, have to call the pharmacy), and of course 1) it's backordered and 2) I go out of town on Monday. It's not a good idea to start a drug like this before traveling! As many on this and other threads repeat, fiber, water, and exercise are crucial. I've usually had a high-fiber diet but had to change it when one of my go-to foods brought on nausea (I was basically mainlining it and I think my body said "no more").
Clearly I'm not a doctor (and don't even play one on TV) but it sounds as though your husband should consult the GI specialist again. I'm quite new to chronic constipation and I should have seen the GI back in June. Maybe everything can be resolved through diet and exercise, maybe kidney meds are interfering, much depends on lifestyle, age, general health, etc., along with common sense. Your GI person can really help.
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Hello @anet Thanks for your reply. I'm sorry to hear of your husband's situation. Iron supplements can really stop you up. Do you know which kind he is taking (ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, ferrous fumarate)? Each one affects the system differently, as I learned years ago when trying them out. Some come in time-release capsules, which can ease the side effects.
As others in this thread mention, fiber and water are crucial. I slowly upped my fiber intake (I was replacing a high-fiber food in my diet) and greatly increased water intake to help resolve constipation issues. Water is especially important when taking iron supplements. Is the dosage recommended by the doctor? Sometimes this can be adjusted depending on the reason for taking iron, always relying on a doctor's or nurse's recommendation (nurses sometimes have a better feel for these issues).