Amitiza is a medication prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with idiopathic chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Its main active ingredient, lubiprostone, works by increasing the amount of fluid in the intestines, thereby aiding in the regulation of stool excretion.
Weight loss can sometimes occur as a reaction to Amitiza, primarily due to its impact on facilitating regular stool flow and eliminating compacted fecal matter from the body. This may result in a reduction of up to 10 pounds in the patient’s total weight. However, it’s important to note that Amitiza is not intended as a weight loss remedy, and using it for such purposes may lead to additional complications in the body.
What Is Amitiza?
Amitiza is a laxative medication prescribed by doctors to individuals experiencing symptoms akin to irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation. Its primary active ingredient, lubiprostone, functions as a chloride channel activator, facilitating the influx of additional fluid into the intestines. This process aids in the passage of stool without difficulty.
While some individuals erroneously link Amitiza with weight loss, this association is unfounded. Weight loss is not a desired effect of the medication, and attempting to utilize it for this purpose can result in adverse side effects.
Uses of Amitiza
Amitiza is primarily prescribed for the treatment of chronic constipation, which often involves difficulty in passing stools over an extended period. It’s commonly recommended by doctors for cases of long-term chronic constipation.
Moreover, individuals experiencing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation may also benefit from this prescribed medication to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, stomach ache, cramps, and infrequent stools.
The recommended standard dosage of Amitiza typically ranges from 24 to 48mcg per day, although this can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual’s treatment needs.
Side Effects of Amitiza
While Amitiza is typically safe when prescribed by a doctor, there are potential adverse effects associated with its use. Rather than aiding in weight loss, one of the side effects of this medication is unintentional weight loss.
A research study evaluating the effectiveness of Amitiza revealed that approximately 29 percent of users experienced nausea, while around 12 percent reported diarrhea. In certain instances, individuals encountered severe diarrhea episodes with Amitiza.
Additional minor side effects of Amitiza encompass acute stomach pain, gas, bloating, heartburn, vomiting, and loss of appetite, among others.
Dosage of Amitiza
The sole connection between Amitiza and weight loss occurs in cases of overdose. Overstepping the prescribed dosage of this medication can lead to unintended weight loss, which is not advisable for health.
The typical dosage range for Amitiza is 8-48mcg per day. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely and not exceed this range unless specifically advised. Otherwise, you may experience severe consequences such as burning sensations, dry heaves, excessive sweating, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and more.