What Is Linzess? First FDA-Approved Treatment For Children Over 7 With IBS-C

The new approval that came from the USFDA makes it sure that the Linzess is safe and effective, bringing a sense of relief for parents and children with the digestive disorder condition called IBS-C.

Irritable bowel syndrome and constipation (IBS-C) is a medical condition that causes digestive disorders with symptoms, including abdominal pain, constipation, gas, and diarrhoea. However, IBS-C is more common with a dominant constipation symptom, while others may have diarrhoea as a dominant symptom. Interestingly, healthcare providers suggest that stress is one key factor that can trigger IBS-C, but stress alone does not cause IBS-C.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), about 10% to 15% of children suffer from digestive disorders. "Failure to effectively treat IBS-C patients over the past decades has largely been due to a poor understanding of disease pathophysiology, lack of a global view of the patient, and an inappropriate selection of patients and treatment endpoints in clinical trials," the NIH explains.

To combat this medical condition, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) just approved a new medication called Linzess,also known as Linaclotide, to treat irritable bowel syndrome and constipation in kids aged 7 and above.

How Does Linzess Help Relieve IBS-C Symptoms In Children?

Linzess is a prescription medication that works directly in your intestines by making things move smoothly. This medication increases the amount of fluid in your bowels and makes your stool softer and easier to pass. Based on a study with participants, including those from the UK and the US, the FDA decided that it was safe and effective for children. A 12-week clinical study involving children between the ages of 7 to 17 showed reduced bowel movement per week, including a 30 per cent drop in belly pain, as compared to when they started the medication.

Side Effects Of Linzess

Reportedly, the precautionary measures for using Linzess are similar for both kids and adults. The most common side effects seen in people using this prescription medication are diarrhoea. Experts recommend that if the symptoms get severe, they must stop using the medicine and ensure to stay well hydrated. It also recommends that children under 2 should not be administered Linzess, as it can cause severe dehydration in babies and toddlers. Lastly, people with bowel blockage must also avoid using this medication.

What Is The Correct Dosage Of Linzess For Children?

For kids aged 7 and above suffering from a digestive disorder, they can be administered 145 micrograms of Linzess once a day. However, to be on the safe side, like any other medication, the best way to use the FDA-approved drug is under the supervision of healthcare professionals.

How The New Approval Benefits The Public

Over the years, doctors have tried using other options to treat IBS-C, none of which were cleared by the FDA for treating digestive disorders in kids. "Constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) is one of the most common disorders seen by gastroenterologists worldwide, and is associated with a substantial burden on health care resources," the NIH claims. But, the new approval that came from the USFDA makes it sure that the drug is safe and effective, bringing a sense of relief for parents and children with the digestive disorder condition.

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