#linzess

[daltongraham]

Linzess! Turns IBS-C into IBS-D! (For 4-5 hours every morning, anyway…then nothing comes out till the next morning)

yeah. I don't know if this is a sustainable fix. The doc said this was the last option in her toolbox. At least the pain is mostly gone? Guess it really was from the IBS-C.

[phonemantra-blog]

Linaclotide, Your Solution to Gastrointestinal Woes Linaclotide is emerging as a beacon of hope for those wrestling with gastrointestinal issues. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the mysteries of Linaclotide, shedding light on its role in digestive health and overall well-being. What Is Linaclotide? Linaclotide, often prescribed under brand names like Linzess, is a remarkable medication that tackles chronic gastrointestinal conditions head-on. Its primary focus lies in addressing two common digestive disorders: Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C). This FDA-approved medication belongs to the class of drugs known as guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonists. [caption id="attachment_56980" align="aligncenter" width="640"] linaclotide[/caption] Understanding Its Purpose and Use Linaclotide doesn't just enter the gastrointestinal scene without reason. Its role is crucial for individuals grappling with persistent digestive discomfort. By exploring the purpose and applications of Linaclotide, we can uncover how it stands as a beacon of hope for many. Conditions Treated with Linaclotide Linaclotide's Triumph Over Digestive Distress To fully grasp the significance of Linaclotide, we must delve into the specific conditions it is engineered to combat. Let's navigate through these conditions and assess Linaclotide's prowess in managing them. Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, or CIC for short, is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficult stool passage, and abdominal discomfort. Those bearing the weight of CIC often experience bloating, which can be a daily ordeal. Linaclotide steps onto the scene as a formidable ally against CIC, promising relief through regular bowel movements and a reduction in associated discomfort. Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation, or IBS-C, paints a picture of abdominal pain, constipation, and erratic bowel habits. It's a condition that can disrupt daily life and leave individuals feeling helpless. Here's where Linaclotide emerges as a hero. FDA-approved for IBS-C treatment, it targets GC-C receptors in the intestines, regulating bowel function and diminishing the discomfort tied to this syndrome. Understanding Common Gastrointestinal Symptoms Before we delve further into Linaclotide's prowess, let's take a moment to understand the common symptoms that often plague those with CIC and IBS-C. This understanding will lay the foundation for appreciating Linaclotide's transformative effects. How Linaclotide Works Unlocking the Mechanism Behind Linaclotide's Magic Understanding how Linaclotide operates within the body is key to appreciating its potential benefits. In this section, we'll delve into the intricate mechanism of action and explore how Linaclotide can positively impact gastrointestinal health. Mechanism of Action Linaclotide's journey begins with a fascinating mechanism of action. At its core, it functions as a guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonist, a term that might sound complex but holds the key to its effectiveness. Let's unravel this mechanism step by step. Targeting Guanylate Cyclase-C (GC-C) GC-C receptors are the secret stars of the intestinal show. They are pivotal components of the intestinal lining, playing a crucial role in regulating fluid balance and electrolyte transport. Linaclotide, when ingested, hones in on these receptors, binding to them with precision. Role in Regulating Intestinal Fluid Secretion Now, here's where the magic happens. Linaclotide's interaction with GC-C receptors initiates a cascade of events that result in enhanced fluid secretion into the intestines. This might sound like a simple process, but it holds immense significance for digestive health. Impact on Intestinal Fluid Secretion By enhancing fluid secretion into the intestines, Linaclotide achieves several essential outcomes: Stool Softening: The increased fluid in the intestines softens stool, making it easier to pass. This effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with constipation. Promoting Bowel Movements: The combination of softening stool and stimulating intestinal contractions encourages regular and more comfortable bowel movements. Reducing Abdominal Discomfort: Linaclotide's effects on bowel regularity can lead to a reduction in abdominal discomfort and bloating, providing much-needed relief to those with CIC and IBS-C. Alleviating Symptoms: By addressing the root causes of constipation and irregular bowel habits, Linaclotide can alleviate the symptoms associated with these conditions, greatly improving an individual's quality of life. Benefits of Linaclotide Linaclotide: Your Path to Gastrointestinal Comfort Linaclotide has garnered attention for its remarkable ability to improve digestive health and enhance overall well-being. In this section, we will explore the specific benefits that individuals may experience when incorporating Linaclotide into their treatment plans. Relieving Constipation One of the primary benefits of Linaclotide is its effectiveness in relieving constipation. For individuals with Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C), achieving regular and comfortable bowel movements can be an ongoing challenge. Linaclotide, through its unique mechanism of action, offers a promising solution. Reducing Abdominal Discomfort Abdominal discomfort often plagues those with CIC and IBS-C. Linaclotide's ability to enhance bowel regularity and reduce constipation-related bloating can lead to a significant reduction in abdominal discomfort. This benefit contributes to an improved overall quality of life for individuals dealing with these conditions. Improving Bowel Movements Linaclotide's mechanism of action not only softens stool but also stimulates intestinal contractions. This dual effect promotes more efficient and regular bowel movements, helping individuals regain control over their digestive health. Improved bowel movements can lead to increased comfort and reduced anxiety related to unpredictable and infrequent stools. Dosage and Administration Mastering Linaclotide's Effective Use Understanding the proper dosage and administration of Linaclotide is crucial to its effectiveness and safety. In this section, we will guide the recommended dosage, tips for effective use, and essential information for healthcare providers. Recommended Dosage The appropriate dosage of Linaclotide may vary based on the specific gastrointestinal condition being treated: Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC): For adults, the typical starting dose is 145 mcg once daily. Based on individual responses, healthcare providers may adjust the dose to 290 mcg once daily if needed. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C): The standard starting dose for adults is 290 mcg once daily. As with CIC, healthcare providers may modify the dose based on individual responses. It is crucial not to exceed the recommended dosage without medical guidance. Precautions and Considerations Linaclotide: Safe and Effective Use Before embarking on a Linaclotide treatment journey, consider the following precautions and considerations: Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Linaclotide with your healthcare provider. The safety of this medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully understood. Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies or sensitivities you may have, as well as any previous adverse reactions to medications. Other Medications: Discuss all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking with your healthcare provider. Some interactions may affect Linaclotide's effectiveness. Pediatric Use: Linaclotide is typically not recommended for use in children under the age of 6. Consult with a healthcare provider for pediatric treatment options. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Linaclotide Q: What is Linaclotide, and what is it used for? A: Linaclotide is a medication used to treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C). It works by promoting regular bowel movements. Q: How does Linaclotide work? A: Linaclotide targets guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) receptors in the intestines, increasing fluid secretion, softening stool, and promoting bowel regularity. Q: What is the recommended dosage for Linaclotide? A: The recommended dosage varies based on the condition being treated. For CIC, it typically starts at 145 mcg once daily and may be adjusted by a healthcare provider. For IBS-C, the starting dose is 290 mcg once daily. Q: When can I expect to see results with Linaclotide? A: It may take a few weeks to experience the full benefits of Linaclotide. Continue with the prescribed regimen, as directed by your healthcare provider. Q: Are there common side effects of Linaclotide? A: Common side effects may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. These side effects often improve with continued use. Q: What should I do if I experience side effects? A: If you experience side effects, contact your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Q: Can Linaclotide be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding? A: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss Linaclotide's use with your healthcare provider. Its safety in these situations is not fully understood. Q: Are there any interactions between Linaclotide and other medications? A: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to ensure there are no interactions that could affect Linaclotide's effectiveness. Q: Is Linaclotide suitable for children? A: Linaclotide is typically not recommended for children under the age of 6. Consult with a healthcare provider for pediatric treatment options. Conclusion: In conclusion, Linaclotide has emerged as a valuable tool in the management of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C). By targeting the guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) receptors in the intestines, Linaclotide can enhance fluid secretion, soften stool, and promote regular bowel movements, ultimately alleviating the discomfort associated with these conditions.

[strvngidiot]

knowing that my doctor said it's highly likely my lifelong ED is the cause for my failing ability to shit is.......kinda funny, kinda not. anyways anyone know how uncomfy a colonoscopy is /hj

[blindgamermisadventures]

This has been one hell of a week. Where do I even begin?

My mother pitches a fit if I don’t eat with the family because it doesn’t feel like I’m “taking part of the family”. Thing is, I am NPO on a feeding tube.

Since I currently have only a “functional” (Most offensive term ever. I can promise you I am not functioning.) condition both professionals and my parents believe I am making a “mountain out of a molehill” and should just get over it and eat.

I also miss food. It’s so rare I eat, not only because of the excruciating pain it causes, but because I have such intense early satiety. I eat a couple bites and I am as full as if I ate a holiday meal. In addition I can feel the food backing up my oesophagus and throat. I have a hard time swallowing too.

So yes I miss food, but I know I cannot eat. Yet my mother’s wrath is not to be trifled with, especially when I am so low on energy. I caved anew ate around a a cup of mashed potatoes and a sliver of homemade sourdough bread.

Well…it was coming out of both my G and J tubes for the next two days. My CNA who helps me daily could see what I ate. It smelled like vomit. (Which I so badly wanted to do due to pain, but I am unable to do so.) I was awful. I was so nauseous. In so much pain. And worse of all I was constipated.

This may be considered TMI, but I don’t care. In multiple tests it’s been documented that I have constant stool burdens at the end of my small intestine and beginning of my colon. I am currently on linzess, but it isn’t helping.

I poop brown smelly water. Even my CNA said this looks like intestinal failure. Yet because I only have a functional diagnosis the ER won’t accept me until I am running a high fever. I have a low grade one, but nope. Still not good enough.

On top of that my feeding pump ( a Kangaroo Joey) stopped working yesterday. I called my feeding tube supplier about sending me a new one. They said it would arrive at noon.

It hadn’t. I called back asking when it would arrive and they said someone signed for it. So I asked all around my apartment complex asking where it was. Nobody said they had it. So I called again. Apparently it SOMEHOW got sent to the wrong place. So they will be sending me one…sometime. Tonight my CNA is going to help me use a gravity bag. I only used one once and it gave me really bad diarrhoea so hopefully we can find a speed that works for me.

So…those on feeding tubes, intestinal failure, and TPN…I need advice. How do I get help? I have been on a feeding tube since January and I am STILL underweight and malnourished. I am not running my full feeds because it burns and the pressure buildup is too much to handle. I already explained about my constant stool burdens and overflow problem. When and how do you bring up the topic of at least trying TPN? How do you get diagnosed with Chronic Intestinal Dysmotility? I know for a fact that is what is going on yet my GI refuses to let me get a Sitz Marker Test because it’s so expensive and intensive. I am suffering and at my whits end and don’t know what to do anymore. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[verifiedaccount]

Started a new treatment (Linzess), for IBS-C, so we’ll see if it continues to work or has any serious side effects, but for the moment I have a working digestive system again. And also confirmation that it wasn’t working properly, some of the muscles and processes weren’t triggering, so stuff wasn’t breaking down or moving and my body was not absorbing a lot of the nutritional content. So I wasn’t imagining being in pain, bloated, physically exhausted, and having difficulty remaining upright. There has been something wrong internally that I just got used to for ages. I’m not collapsing after doing a few things and I can eat regularly. Hopefully I can finally put on some weight, I’ve improved from when I was down to like 105 during the worst of it but I’m still underweight.

[ambrosesystem]

HUH????

OHHHHH

linzess?

dear god I was so fucking confused

[boxheadpaint]

sad that it took until sv to show me donphan is an awesome pokemon but grateful it did. also entirely unrelated; anyone else with ibs have thoughts on linzess. ive been taking it the past 2 weeks or so and while my pain has definitely subsided quite a bit ive had some more uncomfortable issues

[heartfucksmouth]

the last two days have been very positive for me, I've kept to myself and spent the day resting and re-organizing the bedroom and cleaning here and there at a relaxed pace. I feel productive in a really healthy way.

having a lot of nausea but I'm combating it with electrolyte mix and lemonade and rest. coming off most of my meds is daunting but so far I've managed two and I'm doing okay, and I dropped down a dose on my Topamax.

coming off the linzess, I've noticed my belly is waaaay less bloated looking! I'm less uncomfortable now too, and i..I... I'm not constipated? how is that possible when linzess is prescribed *for* constipation. it just made me worse?? fuck that drug. can't wait to tell my gaatro that one.

[daltongraham]

Ah, Linzess.

The medication that makes you feel like you REALLY oughta take some Imodium, but you're not allowed because this is the "desired" behavior.

[lifewithchronicpain]

I called my pharmacy asking why my linzess was stuck and they were like, “don’t you have another month” and sure as shit, another bottle was buried under other medication I get 90 day supplies for. So many meds to track, it’s ridiculous. I know I counted them all once and it was close to 20, with like a dozen in pill form.

Meanwhile my search for a new pain clinic is not going well. Places I call are not prescribing pain medication, alternative pain therapies only. Honestly, how dare you call yourself a pain clinic if you don’t prescribe pain medication! So I don’t waste my fucking time. One place supposedly does prescribe according to another place I called, but I have not heard back. Just left a second message. :/

If I can’t find a place to prescribe then I just might as well follow my old pain doctor to the spine center for epidurals where he will continue doing procedures, but of course no prescribing. My pcp is doing it now but it’s such a hassle since she’s not allowed to add refills. You should be able to do that with Tramadol, it’s not the same class as other opioids. (Which is one reason I take it.) But I guess only pain doctors can do it, of which I can’t fucking find.

[dreamw0rms]

the medication i take for constipation is slowly stopping to work... not good because i don't think i have any over the counter options left to try and i don't want to go back on linzess

[helleanorlance]

Perhaps a little TMI but has anyone used linzess? Would love to hear about people’s experience with it

[gotimothy]

Don't Give Linzess to Your Worst Enemy, February 8, 2024

[caffeinated-rants]

It just keeps getting worse

Nothing can ever go smoothy, can it? I hate how insurances work here in the US. My deductible fucking resets at the beginning of the year and I once again am at ground zero, unable to afford any future progress that can be made towards getting a handle on my anemia. This time, though, I also cannot afford a new medication that I need for keep my IBS-C under control.

I have had to send a lengthy email to my work's HR department, and this time included the Tribal Chairman in on it, because I need HELP.

I am utterly frustrated, stressed, and worried about my health now. If you want to read the lengthy email I sent, I have copy/pastes it under the cut.

"Hello,

I'm sorry to continue bugging you about insurance issues, but I have a lot going on and am trying to do anything I can to still be able to keep track of my health at this time. Because this also weighs on my mother, who I rely on for transportation to all medical appointments, I have CC'd her in this email alongside Rayna so that she is aware of what I am trying to discuss.

As of the beginning of the year, I know that my deductible reset to 0. At this time, having that reset has utterly screwed me over in terms of my healthcare at this time. I was scheduled for an endoscopy this coming Monday in order to assist in figuring out why I am severely anemic, but due to the deductible resetting my co-pay up front is $4,000 and I cannot afford that. My medications have also been affected, as gastroenterology has put me on Linzess to control my IBS. Due to my deductible resetting, the co-pay cost of this medication is $500. I am now at a point where I'm going to be forced to halt any further progress on getting my health back to normal, which poses the dangerous possibility that it will once again tank downward because of this.

If there is any possible way that I can make insurance changes before open enrollment, I really would be grateful. Currently I have the HSA High Deductible Plan with Blue Sheild. My deductible is $3,800.

When I spoke with Jimmy back in December due to the situation between Blue Sheild and Adventist Health, he proposed that it was possible to make an emergency change in benefits before the two parties came to an agreement. We discussed the possibility of moving down to the Low Deductible Plan and I promptly put in a Qualifying Event request at his direction in hopes of getting this to happen. Weeks passed and I heard nothing from Jimmy, whether it be because of people in HR leaving the company or because this happened at the same time as the holiday season. During the time I waited, I sent at least 3 to 4 polite emails asking for an update that went unresponsive (again, be it due to those in HR leaving or because of the holidays season, if not both). When I finally was able to hear back, after finally hitting a point where I was getting frustrated and sent an email that indicated this, I was told that legal did not consider my situation to be a Qualifying Event and that I would need to wait until the next open enrollment in May for changes to take effect in June.

This is legitimately forcing me to halt any further progress on getting my physical health back up to par. At this rate, I have already had to cancel my refill on Linzess because I cannot afford a $500 co-pay for a necessary medication. I am still trying to work something out with Foothill Specialty's Gastro department so that I can still go through with the endoscopy on Monday, but again I cannot afford $4,000 up front for this. And yes, these costs are AFTER my insurance has covered their portion of the cost. When speaking with Gastro, they tried to see if I could do $1,000 up front, which again I cannot afford. I told them I could do $200 up front and then $200 a month thereafter until the total cost is paid off, to which they said they would sent it to their higher ups to seek approval for this, but did inform me that they honestly do not think that my compromise will be accepted "due to how low it is". Due to this, I may have to cancel this needed procedure that I need to continue with getting a handle on my anemia. The whole point of the endoscopy is to check and see if there is any internal bleeding in my GI track, as well as to take a biopsy to test for conditions that cause mal-absorptions in iron.

I need to be able to bump down to a lower deductible. As it stands now, with my current plan, I have to halt any and all future progress on bettering my physical health, which again, puts me at the dangerous possibility of my health (mainly the anemia) worsening once again. I already have had to have iron infusions due to how severe the anemia is, and I'm thankful that happened before my deductible reset, because I wouldn't have been able to afford it otherwise.

I am begging you at this point, really. I need to be able to bump down to a lower deductible sooner rather than later with the health issues I have going on. I cannot allow these costs to pile up, as I already am trying to pay off my surgery fees from this past August. Please, if there is any way that I can make changes in my benefits without having to wait for May to come around, and then June for those changes to take effect, I would be beyond grateful.

I hope to hear from you soon,

Thank you."

[087710]

no Crohn's or polyps & my biopsy comes back in 7-10 days, but as of now im just adding miralax in combination with my linzess. the dr said it could be like my pelvic floor or smthing being weak too and that could be helped with physical therapy so i guess if im still having problems after adding the miralax that's an option.

[marlaluster]

Letting the cat out of the bag: What exactly I'm doing to be free of this reality further...

Upon editing the preceding post here by adding more details, I pretty much started to tell something I'm doing presently that I was going to avoid telling here because I haven't told my family about it yet. I was also avoiding telling here exactly what action I'm taking because, for some reason, I have a fear that my telling what I'm doing will result in things going wrong for me.

But what I'm doing is slowly going off psychiatric medicine. After I started decreasing my nightly dose of 10 mg of Olanzipine about a week ago, I decided to start to try to go off all my medicines, not just the Olanzipine. Also, I had a very high blood pressure reading yesterday at the psychiatrist's office and I decided to try to discontinue seeing doctors sooner than I originally intended because it was so disturbing.

One thing that was disturbing was the response from medical workers to my blood pressure reading when I called my primary care doctor's office when I got home from seeing the psychiatrist, who I call my PCP. It seemed so troublesome that the office worker and nurse at the doctor's office were acting like I was experiencing a serious health problem. It seems so unlikely to me that I would have serious health problems but here I was yesterday getting attention from medical professionals as if I was having a serious health problem.

So that's it for me. I'm hoping to avoid medical remedies and medical help altogether from now on, except slowly going off the Olanzipine over the next two months.

Presently, I feel I am able to finally eventually be free of medical interventions -- which I had been thinking I'd prefer to be at several points in the past four and a half years I've been taking psychiatric medicine -- because I am friends with the entities who talk in my mind and who rule this world, and I don't believe they or anything or anyone is evil anymore, so they will not attack me the same as they used to when I believed in evil. One way the entities attack differently if I disbelieve in evil is that they won't do the irritation they do when I am off psychiatric medicine.

The irritation they do when I believed in evil and was off meds was meant to make it where I would noisily mumble and get upset, and my noisiness was upsetting and bothering my family whom I have to live with. So now I can be free of the irritation when I go off psychiatric meds and everything will seemingly go well if I go off psychiatric and other meds, I think. I'm hoping everything goes well because I feel like I can't be involved in the medical aspect of society because things go so horribly wrong, like with the blood pressure reading yesterday.

As for the other medicines I had been taking other than psychiatric medicine, I think the entities will not cause the same health issues for me if I disbelieve in evil, as I disbelieve now, starting Oct. 19, 2023. Up until yesterday night, I had been taking medicine for constipation, and high blood pressure in addition to medicine for schizophrenia. I also had been taking a med for insomnia up until Saturday. So far, I've been sleeping not too bad and I had a small bowel movement today without taking 72 mcg of Linzess.

I don't know what to say about my blood pressure. It was 158/90 yesterday, which caused medical workers to act concerned I could be experiencing a medical emergency.

The entities who rule this world and talk in my mind are not lowering my blood pressure now that I disbelieve in evil and am going off Olanzipine, which one entity said was causing my high blood pressure, but the entities tell me I shouldn't experience any problems from having so called high blood pressure, like a stroke or anything like that.

I feel dying from medical problems is better than relying on medical remedies and medical workers. But I don't want complications from health problems and I don't think I will have them. I don't think I will die, either, because I don't think it is real here. I don't think it is real that I would ever die.