How Chronic Constipation Can Affect You
Chronic Constipation Is More Common Than You May Think
Millions of adults in the United States suffer from this condition. Most studies find that self-reported constipation is more common in women than in men and that the prevalence increases with age.
AMITIZA (24 mcg) twice daily is approved to treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation in adults.
As you know, Chronic Constipation can be very uncomfortable and frustrating. Typically, Chronic Idiopathic Constipation patients have fewer than 3 bowel movements a week for more than 3 months, and may also have trouble passing stool.
Chronic Constipation Symptoms
Everyone's body is different. The symptoms of Chronic Constipation can be different for everyone. If you suffered from any 2 or more of these symptoms for 3 months over the last year, you may have Chronic Constipation:
- Abdominal bloating and discomfort
- 25% or more of your bowel movements involve hard or lumpy stools
- Feeling like your bowel is never completely empty
- Generally fewer than 3 bowel movements a week
If you want to see if there's a pattern to your symptoms, it's often helpful to track them over time. To help you discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider, download the tracking tool.
Not sure how to talk with your healthcare provider about your Chronic Constipation? This section includes a Treatment Conversation Guide to help with that conversation. Here, you can answer questions about your symptoms and keep track of how they affect you. There's even an area where you can write down next steps. Just remember, the more information you give your healthcare provider, the more likely they will be able to help you. So come prepared to share.
When Diet and Exercise Aren't Enough
Chronic Constipation can be very uncomfortable and frustrating. Your healthcare provider may, therefore, suggest a few lifestyle changes, such as an increase in physical activity as well as adding more dietary fiber and increasing your liquid consumption. They may also recommend over-the-counter products such as:
- Bulk forming laxatives
- Osmotic laxatives
- Stimulant laxatives
- Stool softeners
- Lubricants
AMITIZA May Be Right For You
A healthy diet, regular exercise and reducing stress levels are good guidelines for everyone. However, if you've tried healthy lifestyle changes and fiber, and you're still experiencing symptoms of Chronic Constipation, it may be time to ask your healthcare provider about other therapies, including AMITIZA. AMITIZA (24 mcg) twice daily is approved to treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation in adults.
Indication
AMITIZA (24 mcg) twice daily is approved to treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation in adults. "Idiopathic" means the cause of the constipation is unknown and not due to an underlying illness or medication.
Important Safety Information
AMITIZA is not for everyone. If you know or suspect you have a bowel blockage, do not take AMITIZA. If you are unsure, your healthcare provider should evaluate your condition before starting AMITIZA. You should not take AMITIZA if you have severe diarrhea.
AMITIZA has not been studied in pregnant women and should only be used during a pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus. Women should have a negative pregnancy test before beginning treatment with AMITIZA and need to practice effective birth control measures. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while being treated with AMITIZA, talk to your healthcare provider to evaluate the risks to the fetus.
Some patients taking AMITIZA may experience nausea or diarrhea. If nausea occurs, take AMITIZA with food. If your nausea or diarrhea becomes severe, tell your healthcare provider.
Within an hour of taking AMITIZA, a sensation of chest tightness and shortness of breath may occur. These symptoms usually go away within three hours, but may recur with repeated use. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms.
The most common side effects of taking AMITIZA (24 mcg) twice daily, orange capsules for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation are nausea, diarrhea, and headache. These are not all the side effects associated with AMITIZA.
Tell your doctor if you have liver problems.
