Table of Contents

I. Linzess Dosages

II. How to Take Linzess

III. Missing a Linzess Dose

IV. Conclusion

Chronic constipation can be a challenging condition to manage, but for those seeking relief, Linzess may offer a promising solution.

To get the maximum benefit from Linzess, it is important to understand how to take this medication properly. The dosage and administration method can significantly impact how well it works for you.

In this article, we'll explore Linzess dosages, how to take it, what to do if you miss a dose, and tips to help you remember to take your daily dose.

Linzess Dosages

When you start taking Linzess, finding the optimal dosage is important for managing your symptoms effectively. Linzess capsules come in three strengths:

• 72 mcg
• 145 mcg
• 290 mcg [1]

Your doctor will work with you to decide which dosage suits your needs. Some key factors influence which dosage your doctor recommends:

• Your diagnosis: Your dosage depends on the condition Linzess is treating.

• Symptom severity: More intense symptoms often need higher doses for adequate relief. Milder cases can typically start with a lower dose.

• Your response: Your doctor may have you try a lower dose first, then increase it over time. This helps find the lowest effective dose with fewer side effects. [1]

Dosage needs can change over time. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust the Linzess dosage as needed. 

Linzess Dosage for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)

IBS-C is a specific type of irritable bowel syndrome characterized mainly by constipation. [2] Along with constipation, people with IBS-C often experience:

• Stomach cramps and pain
• Bloating
• Increased gas
• Mucus in stool [2]

It's important to understand that IBS-C is not the same as chronic constipation. While chronic constipation refers only to problems having bowel movements, IBS-C also involves abdominal discomfort and pain. Linzess can relieve symptoms of IBS-C, helping make bowel movements more frequent and comfortable. {{2}]

The recommended dosage of Linzess for IBS-C is 290 mg once daily. [1]

Linzess Dosage for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)

CIC is a condition characterized by ongoing constipation without a known cause. With CIC, people have difficulty passing stools and may only have bowel movements a couple of times per week. [3] Common CIC symptoms include:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Passing hard or lumpy stools
• Feeling incomplete emptying after a bowel movement
• Less frequent bowel movements (fewer than three times per week) [3]

Starting Linzess helps increase the fluid secretion into the intestines to soften stool and improve bowel movement frequency. Common Linzess dosages for CIC are:

• 145 mcg once daily
• 72 mcg once daily if the 145 mcg causes increased side effects [1]

Linzess Dosage for Functional Constipation (FC) in Children Above Six Years of Age

Functional constipation is not caused by an underlying medical condition. Rather, it occurs due to a combination of factors, such as:

• Diet
• Stress
• Environment
• Coping skills
• Level of support [4]

If your child is struggling with functional constipation, they may show signs like:

• Passing hard and painful stools
• Unable to completely empty their bowels
• Difficult and infrequent bowel movements [4]

To help relieve your child's functional constipation in a gentle way, the recommended Linzess dosage is a lower dosage of 72 mcg taken once daily. [1]

How to Take Linzess

Linzess is an oral capsule, meaning you swallow it whole. Take your prescribed dose every day for best results, even if you don't feel constipated. Unlike laxatives, which can be used as needed, Linzess works through consistent, daily use. [5]