Description
Indications
Plecanatide belongs to the class of guanylate cyclase-C agonists, which is primarily used in adults to treat two conditions: chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
CIC refers to the difficulty or infrequency of stool passage that lasts for more than 3 months and is not caused by a disease or medication. IBS-C is a condition characterized by abdominal pain or cramps, bloating, and constipation. Plecanatide works by increasing the movement of food and waste through the stomach and intestines, thereby providing relief from these symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
To use this medication, take it by mouth once daily as directed by your doctor, with or without food.
If you find it difficult to swallow the tablet, you may crush it and mix the powder with a teaspoonful of room-temperature applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately and do not store it for later use.
Alternatively, you can place the tablet into a cup with an ounce (30 milliliters) of room-temperature water, swirl the mixture for at least 10 seconds, and drink it right away. If you see any remnants of the tablet left in the cup, add another ounce (30 milliliters) of water to the cup, swirl for 10 seconds, and drink it immediately to ensure you get the full dose.
If you are administering this medication through a tube, seek detailed instructions from your healthcare provider on how to do so.
For maximum effectiveness, use this medication regularly at the same time every day. To help you remember, try to take it at a consistent time.
Do not exceed your prescribed dose or use this medication more often or for a longer period than prescribed. Doing so will not improve your condition any quicker and may increase your risk of side effects.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stomach bloating or tenderness
- gas
- mild diarrhea
- nausea
- dizziness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe diarrhea
Caution
Prior to initiating plecanatide therapy, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any known allergies to the medication or other substances. This product may contain inactive components that can cause hypersensitivity reactions or other untoward effects.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history, especially regarding any previous instances of intestinal or stomach blockage, to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be administered when deemed necessary by a physician. The risks and benefits of plecanatide therapy must be evaluated thoroughly before initiating treatment.
It is currently unknown whether this medication is excreted into breast milk. To ensure safety for both the mother and infant, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Trulance is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Trulance tablet:
- 3mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Trulance to take effect?
In clinical trials of Trulance, people’s constipation eased as quickly as 1 week after starting treatment.
Is it better to take Trulance in the morning or at night?
Trulance can be taken any time of the day, with or without food.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-trulance-side-effects#:~:text=Trulance%20starts%20working%20to%20treat,1%20week%20after%20starting%20treatment
- https://www.trulance.com/about-trulance/taking-trulance/#:~:text=Trulance%20can%20be%20taken%20any,your%20day%20around%20your%20medication
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/trulance
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-173249/trulance-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a617020.html
- https://www.drugs.com/trulance.html