Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ALOSETRON - ORAL (al-OH-seh-tron)
BRAND NAME(S): Lotronex
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Alosetron has rarely caused serious, sometimes fatal intestinal side effects including constipation and ischemic colitis. This medication should only be used in women with severe cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) where the major symptom is diarrhea. If you experience constipation, new or worsening bowel pains, or blood in your diarrhea or stool, stop taking this drug and contact your doctor immediately. Before your doctor can prescribe this medication for you, your doctor must have completed the Prescribing Program for Lotronex (PPL). Only carefully selected patients may use this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
USES: This medication is used to treat severe cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women who have diarrhea as a major symptom. Alosetron is not effective in men with IBS.
HOW TO USE: Read and complete the Patient-Physician Agreement form provided by your doctor. Also, be sure to get a Medication Guide from your pharmacist, and then read it carefully. Your prescription must have a sticker affixed to it in order for your pharmacy to dispense you a supply of this medicine. Take this medication by mouth, initially once daily with or without food. Do not begin this medication if you are currently constipated. Contact your doctor for further instructions.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, stomach upset, or hemorrhoids may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: bloating, depression. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects: constipation, bloody stools, unexplained fever, unusually fast pulse, new or sudden worsening of stomach/abdominal/bowel pain. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Learn about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) causes, symptoms inlcuding diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Information also includes diagnosis and treatment of IBS.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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