Do you often have stomach discomfort, a feeling of fullness, and constipation? This is called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). For some people, constipation is a major problem with this condition. So, your doctor may have prescribed a medication called Tenapanor as a treatment for this. Today, let's talk about this medication, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
What is Tenapanor?
Simply put, Tenapanor is a medication used to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a condition characterized by constipation. You may find this medication under the brand name IBSRELA. This medication works by controlling the amount of water and ions (ions) in your intestines, adding more water to your stool, making it easier to pass. This can help reduce symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating.
The most important thing is, do not use this medicine without consulting a doctor, even if it is recommended by someone else or because the symptoms you have had are similar to yours.
What should I tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
It is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history before prescribing this medication. Be sure to tell them about any of the conditions listed below.
| Your situation | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| If you have had fecal impaction before. | Because this medication changes the way the intestines function, it is important for the doctor to know about this. |
| If you currently have diarrhea or if you have frequent diarrhea. | Tenapanor can cause diarrhea, which may worsen an existing condition. |
| If you have a condition such as bowel obstruction or adhesions. | Using this medication under these conditions can be dangerous. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to Tenapanor or other medicines, foods, or dyes. | This is essential to prevent allergies. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | Special care should be taken when using medications during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother. | You should talk to your doctor about whether the medication passes to your baby through breast milk. |
How should I use this medicine?
For a medicine to work properly, it is very important to take it exactly as prescribed.
- This medicine should be taken orally with water .
- It is usually said to be taken twice a day. That means it should be taken right before breakfast or the first meal of the day, and right before dinner .
- Continue using it until your doctor tells you to stop. Don't stop on your own.
- Do not give to children: This medicine is not approved for use in children. Therefore, if you have a child, talk to your doctor.
- If you take too much medicine: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
- Do not share: This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, skip it altogether . That means don't take it. Take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Doing so increases the risk of side effects.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Tenapanor can cause side effects in some people. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the body, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat (may cause difficulty breathing). |
| Severe diarrhea | Diarrhea that cannot be stopped, is severe, or continues. This can lead to dehydration. |
| Severe stomach pain | An unbearable stomach pain that goes beyond normal discomfort. |
| Usually does not require medical treatment (but tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome) | |
| Stomach discomfort | Bloating, gas. |
| Dizziness | A feeling of light dizziness. |
| Changes in stool | Loose stools. |
How should you store the medicine?
Storing a medicine properly is very important to maintain its quality.
- Keep away from children: Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Temperature: Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat and extreme cold.
- Protect from moisture: Keep the medicine in the original bottle, tightly closed. Do not store in places with high humidity, such as the bathroom.
- The packet in the bottle: Do not remove the small packet (desiccant) inside the bottle. It is what keeps the medicine dry.
- After expiration: Do not use any medicine after the expiration date. They should be thrown away. Ask your doctor about the safest way to dispose of them.
Take-Home Message
- Tenapanor is a special medication given for IBS accompanied by constipation.
- Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time (before breakfast and dinner).
- Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, allergies, and all medications you are taking.
- If you experience severe diarrhea, unbearable stomach pain, or allergic symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.
- Never share this medicine with anyone else.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, be sure to talk to your doctor.
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