Understanding IBS with Constipation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) is one of three types of IBS in which constipation is a predominant symptom. Since it is different in different people, it's important that you describe your symptoms accurately to your doctor. In general, IBS is defined as:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort for at least 6 months
Plus 2 or more of these:
- Relief with a bowel movement
- Changes in the number of bowel movements per week
- Stool appearance changes
If you have IBS-C, you'll also experience at least two of the following:
- Fewer than 3 bowel movements in a week
- Hard stool at least 25% of the time
- 25% or more of your bowel movements involve straining
IBS-C Is More Common Than You Think
If you have IBS-C, you are far from alone. Believe it or not, millions of adults in the United States may suffer from IBS. A survey showed that nearly one-third of affected women with IBS have IBS-C.
What Causes IBS with Constipation?
Unfortunately, there's no easy answer to that one. Some researchers speculate that many people with IBS may have a colon or intestine that reacts to certain food and/or stress "triggers."
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Effects of IBS with Constipation
Learn about your symptoms and lifestyle changes that may make a difference.
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Commonly Used Treatments
Talk to your healthcare provider and see what treatments may be right for you.
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Indication
AMITIZA (8 mcg) twice daily is approved to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in women 18 years of age and older.
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 (8 mcg) twice daily, pink capsules for IBS-C are nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These are not all the side effects associated with AMITIZA.
Tell your doctor if you have liver problems.
Please click here for complete Prescribing Information.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
