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Ibsrela vs Linzess
Introduction
For patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), certain drugs that alter the movement of food through your digestive tract can help to manage symptoms and improve bowel movements. Ibsrela and Linzess are two such drugs frequently prescribed for these conditions. They each influence different aspects of intestinal function, but both aid in relieving long-term constipation issues faced by patients. Ibsrela is a sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor - it blocks NHE3 on the surface of cells lining the intestines, thereby increasing fluid secretion into the gut to promote bowel movements. On the other hand, Linzess falls under guanylate cyclase-C agonists class; it increases levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), thus promoting intestinal fluid secretion and transit.
Ibsrela vs Linzess Side By Side
| Attribute | Ibsrela | Linzess |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Ibsrela | Linzess |
| Contraindications | Known allergy to any ingredients, under 18 years old, intestinal blockage | Known allergy to any ingredients, under 18 years old, intestinal blockage |
| Cost | $1,100 for 30 tablets | $470 for 30 capsules |
| Generic Name | Tenapanor | Linaclotide |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Severe stomach pain or diarrhea, unusual or severe tiredness, blood in the stools | Severe diarrhea which may result in dehydration, blood in stools or severe constipation |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Not specifically mentioned, but it's important to tell your physician about all medications and supplements you are taking. | Not specifically mentioned, but as with any medication, it's crucial to discuss all other medications and supplements you are taking with your healthcare provider. |
| Typical Dose | 50 mg twice a day for adults | 290 mcg/day for CIC and 145 mcg/day for IBS-C |
What is Ibsrela?
Tenapanor (the generic name for Ibsrela) is a newer class of drug specifically designed to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Approved by the FDA in 2019, this oral medication works by inhibiting the sodium-hydrogen exchanger NHE3 in the gut, resulting in an increase of water in the intestines and facilitating bowel movements. It's prescribed for adults suffering from IBS-C.
On the other hand, Linaclotide (known as Linzess) has been approved since 2012 and also treats IBS-C along with chronic idiopathic constipation. It functions differently than Tenapanor; it increases fluid secretion into your intestine to help you pass stool more comfortably.
Both drugs offer relief from symptoms associated with IBS-C but do so through different mechanisms of action which can result in varying side effects. While both medications may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain or swelling are less common side effects with Tenapanor compared to Linaclotide.
What conditions is Ibsrela approved to treat?
Ibsrela is approved for the treatment of different variations of irritable bowel syndrome:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in adults
- Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adult patients
Linzess, on the other hand, has also been approved for similar conditions including:
- Adults suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)
- Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) In addition to this, Linzess is used to treat severe pain and bloating related to IBS.
How does Ibsrela help with these illnesses?
Ibsrela helps to manage irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) by increasing the amount of fluid in your intestines. It does this by blocking the action of an enzyme called sodium-hydrogen exchanger 3, which helps regulate fluid balance in the body. As a result, more water stays in your gut instead of being absorbed back into your body, softening stools and stimulating bowel movements. Increased intestinal fluid can help alleviate symptoms such as stomach pain and straining during bowel movements that are often associated with IBS-C. Therefore, by increasing intestinal fluid levels, Ibsrela can limit the negative effects of IBS-C and help patients manage their condition and stabilize their digestive health.
What is Linzess?
Linzess, a brand name for linaclotide, is primarily used to treat certain types of bowel problems such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), and chronic idiopathic constipation. It works by increasing the secretion of chloride and water in the intestines which can soften stools and stimulate bowel movements. Linzess was first approved by the FDA in 2012.
Unlike Ibsrela, it does not act on serotonin but instead binds to a receptor called guanylate cyclase C found on cells that line your gut. This increases the amount of fluid flowing into your bowels which helps make passing stool easier.
Its side effect profile differs from that of medications like Ibsrela that impact serotonin levels; diarrhea is its most common side effect rather than bloating or gas often associated with other treatments. The effects on intestinal fluid can be beneficial for treating constipation, particularly in patients who do not respond well to typical laxative drugs.
What conditions is Linzess approved to treat?
Linzess has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain digestive disorders in adults:
- Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC)
- Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) This medication can help to relieve belly pain and improve bowel movements, offering significant relief to those suffering from these chronic conditions.
How does Linzess help with these illnesses?
Linzess, like Ibsrela, is a medication known to effectively treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC). Linzess works by increasing the fluid in your intestines, which can help ease movement through the digestive system. This action of Linzess helps alleviate some symptoms of these conditions such as stomach pain and bloating. It's also believed to potentially calm down pain-sensing nerves in the gut. While both medications are designed for similar purposes, Linzess has shown its efficacy across broader age ranges and may be prescribed when a patient does not respond well to other treatments for IBS-C or CIC, or it might be combined with them.
How effective are both Ibsrela and Linzess?
Both tenapanor (Ibsrela) and linaclotide (Linzess) have demonstrated effectiveness in managing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), and they were approved by the FDA within a few years of each other. As they act through different mechanisms, they may be prescribed under varying circumstances. The efficacy of tenapanor and linaclotide in treating IBS-C was directly studied in numerous clinical trials; both drugs exhibited similar effectiveness in alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain and constipation, as well as showing generally safe profiles.
A 2015 review of randomized controlled trials on linaclotide reported that it is effective from the first week of treatment, its side effect profile is largely tolerable compared to many other medications used for IBS-C, especially with respect to serious adverse events. This study further notes that linaclotide has become one of the most widely prescribed drug options for IBS-C due to its significant benefits on global symptoms relief.
A recent 2019 review indicated that tenapanor seems more effective than placebo at reducing abdominal pain and increasing bowel movements among patients suffering from IBS-C. However, data confirming its long-term safety profile are still emerging given its relatively recent approval date. Nonetheless, thanks to its dual mechanism action - reduction in dietary sodium absorption leading to increased fluid content within the gut along with inhibition on visceral hypersensitivity – tenapanor may be an optimal choice for patients who did not respond well or tolerate previous treatments for their condition.
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At what dose is Ibsrela typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Ibsrela are typically prescribed at 50 mg twice a day for adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), while Linzess is generally recommended at a dose of 290 mcg once daily in adults with chronic idiopathic constipation and IBS. For those just starting on either medication, doctors might prescribe lower doses to see how the body reacts. If there's no response or if side effects become unmanageable, adjustments can be made accordingly after consulting with your healthcare provider. As always, it's important not to exceed the maximum dosage as determined by your doctor.
At what dose is Linzess typically prescribed?
Linzess treatment typically commences at a dosage of 290 mcg/day for chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and 145 mcg/day for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Doses can be adjusted based on patient response. The medication should be taken once daily, on an empty stomach, at least half an hour before the first meal of the day. If after a few weeks there is no improvement in symptoms or if side effects become troublesome, consult your healthcare provider as they may consider either increasing or decreasing the dose accordingly. Remember that maximum efficacy is achieved by consistent daily use over time; sporadic usage will not provide optimal results.
What are the most common side effects for Ibsrela?
Common side effects of Ibsrela may include:
- Diarrhea
- Gas or bloating
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting
- Indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Increased liver enzymes
While Linzess also shares similar side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, gas and bloating. In addition to these common symptoms, it may cause:
- Heartburn
- Vomiting
- Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
These are not exhaustive lists of potential side effects. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms after starting treatment with either Ibsrela or Linzess, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Ibsrela?
While Ibsrela and Linzess are both used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), they can have different side effects. For Ibsrela, be alert for:
- Allergic reactions that may manifest as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
- Severe stomach pain or diarrhea
- Unusual or severe tiredness
- Blood in the stools
With Linzess, you should watch out for:
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
- Severe diarrhea which may result in dehydration symptoms such as unusual dry mouth/thirst or fainting due to loss of too much water from the body.
In either case if you experience any of these symptoms it is essential that you seek immediate medical attention.
What are the most common side effects for Linzess?
Linzess, when compared to Ibsrela, may come with its own set of side effects that can include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Gas
- Headache
- Viral gastroenteritis
- Sinusitis These are common side effects and usually mild. However, if these symptoms persist or become severe, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider immediately. Remember that the benefits of taking Linzess for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often outweigh the potential discomforts from these side effects.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Linzess?
While Linzess is generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects that may occur. These include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction including hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
- Severe stomach pain or diarrhea
- Blood in stools or severe constipation
- Lightheadedness due to dehydration (from severe diarrhea)
- Rapid heartbeat and palpitations
- Confusion or unusual changes in mood
If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Linzess, stop using the medication and get medical help right away. As with all medications, discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication.
Contraindications for Ibsrela and Linzess?
Both Ibsrela and Linzess, as with most other medications for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may worsen symptoms in some individuals. If you notice your IBS symptoms worsening or an increase in stomach pain, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Ibsrela nor Linzess should be taken if you have a known allergy to any of their ingredients. Always tell your physician which medications you are taking; this includes over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications can interact with these two drugs and impact how they work.
Importantly, neither drug is recommended for those under 18 years old due to the risk of serious side effects. Additionally, both medicines are contraindicated in patients who have had intestinal blockage (obstruction). Taking these drugs when having this condition could lead to potentially serious health complications like ruptured bowel.
How much do Ibsrela and Linzess cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price for 30 tablets of Ibsrela (290 mcg) averages around $1,100, which works out to approximately $36/day.
- The price for 30 capsules of Linzess (145 mcg) is about $470, translating to roughly $15.60/day.
Thus, if you are taking a standard dosage for each medication, Linzess tends to be less expensive on a per-day treatment basis than Ibsrela. As always though, please remember that cost should not be your primary consideration in determining which drug is right for you.
Currently there are no generic versions available for either Ibsrela or Linzess due to patent protections; as such, their costs remain relatively high compared to many other prescription medications.
Popularity of Ibsrela and Linzess
Ibsrela (tenapanor) and Linzess (linaclotide) are both medications used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
In the US, an estimated 2.7 million prescriptions for Linzess were filled in 2020, accounting for about 30% of all medication prescribed for IBS-C. Since its approval by the FDA in 2012, it has seen a steady increase in usage due to its effectiveness at relieving abdominal pain and increasing bowel movement frequency.
On the other hand, Ibsrela was approved by the FDA more recently in September 2019 as an alternative treatment option for IBS-C. While exact prescription numbers aren't available yet because it's relatively new on the market, it is expected to gain popularity given that early clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy at reducing abdominal pain and improving bowel movements without causing significant side effects. Both drugs offer unique mechanisms of action which can be beneficial depending on individual patient needs.
Conclusion
Both Ibsrela (tenapanor) and Linzess (linaclotide) are FDA-approved for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C). These drugs possess a well-established efficacy profile, supported by numerous clinical trials demonstrating their superiority to placebo. Due to their different mechanisms of action - Ibsrela reduces the absorption of dietary sodium in the gut, leading to an increase in water secretion into the colon which facilitates bowel movement; whereas Linzess increases fluid secretion in your intestines to help make bowel movements easier - they may be prescribed under varying circumstances.
While both medications have demonstrated effectiveness, they might be chosen based on individual patient needs and symptomatology. Linzess is often considered as a first-line treatment option due its long-standing use and broad indication for both Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and IBS-C patients.
Both drugs are patented medicines; hence generic versions aren't available yet which might influence out-of-pocket expenses for some patients. It's also important to note that it could take time before you start noticing improvement after starting either medication.
The side effect profiles are similar between these two drugs with most common ones being diarrhea, bloating or gas, stomach pain and nausea. However, individuals should report any persistent or severe symptoms immediately to healthcare providers. For both medications, regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals is recommended especially when initiating therapy.
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Refrences
- Love, B. L., Johnson, A., & Smith, L. S. (2014, July 1). Linaclotide: A novel agent for chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy. Oxford University Press (OUP).http://doi.org/10.2146/ajhp130575
- Vazquez-Roque, M. I., & Bouras, E. P. (2013, February 20). Linaclotide, Novel Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation and Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Advances in Therapy. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1007/s12325-013-0012-9
- Keto, Y., & Kosako, M. (2019). Pharmacological and clinical profile of linaclotide (Linzess<sup>®</sup>), a novel therapeutic agent for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. Folia Pharmacologica Japonica. Japanese Pharmacological Society.http://doi.org/10.1254/fpj.153.289
- Keto, Y., & Kosako, M. (2019). Pharmacological and clinical profile of linaclotide (Linzess<sup>®</sup>), a novel therapeutic agent for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. Folia Pharmacologica Japonica. Japanese Pharmacological Society.http://doi.org/10.1254/fpj.153.289