Sticking to Your AMITIZA Treatment Plan
Congratulations on taking the all-important step of discussing your condition with your doctor! But your relationship doesn't stop with that first visit. Because Chronic Constipation is a medical condition, you will need to monitor your progress and regularly share that information with your doctor. Below are some tips for doing so.
- It all starts with filling the prescription. You may be eligible for the AMITIZA Healthy Savings Program.
- Take AMITIZA as directed by your doctor. For Chronic Constipation, the dose is 1 orange 24 mcg gelcap taken twice a day with food and water or a meal. Swallow the gelatin capsule whole. Do not break them apart or chew them.
- Chart your progress. You documented your symptoms to show your constipation symptoms in the past. Use the Progress Checker again to show how you are doing on therapy.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor.
- Prepare for the appointment by filling out your Chronic Constipation Treatment Conversation Guide and writing down any additional questions you might have. Bring this information as well as a notebook and pen to your next appointment.
Not sure how to talk with your doctor about your Chronic Constipation? This section includes a Treatment Conversation Guide to help make that conversation easier. Here, you can answer questions about your condition and keep track of how it affects you. There's even an area where you can write down next steps. Just remember, the more information you give your doctor, the more likely they will be able to help you. So come prepared to share.
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.
