Lubistone 8

Indications

Lubistone is used for:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)
• Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) in adults
• Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) in adults experiencing chronic, non-cancer pain

Always consult a registered healthcare professional before use.

Pharmacology

Lubiprostone is a locally acting chloride-channel activator that enhances intestinal secretion. By increasing intestinal motility, it facilitates stool passage and alleviates symptoms associated with chronic idiopathic constipation.

Lubiprostone specifically targets ClC-2 chloride channels, which are naturally present in the intestinal apical membrane. Its mechanism operates independently of protein kinase A. When ClC-2 channels are activated, chloride ions flow into the intestinal lumen, prompting sodium ions to follow via a paracellular route. This influx of sodium draws water into the lumen, increasing fluid secretion and promoting motility, thus easing stool passage. Additionally, activating ClC-2 channels may aid in restoring mucosal barrier function by re-establishing tight junction protein complexes in the intestine. Studies indicate that most of lubiprostone’s beneficial effects occur at the apical (luminal) region of the gastrointestinal epithelium.

Dosage & Administration

• For Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation: Take 8 mcg twice daily with food and water.
  • Hepatic Impairment: No adjustment needed for moderate impairment. For severe impairment, start with 8 mcg once daily, potentially increasing to 8 mcg twice daily if tolerated.
• For Chronic Idiopathic Constipation and Opioid-Induced Constipation: Recommended dose is 24 mcg twice daily with food and water.
  • Hepatic Impairment: Start with 16 mcg twice daily for moderate impairment; 8 mcg twice daily for severe impairment.

Consult a registered healthcare professional before use.

Interaction

The effectiveness of Lubistone may decrease in patients using diphenylheptane opioids.

Contraindications

Lubiprostone is contraindicated for patients with known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction.

Side Effects

Potential side effects may include diarrhea, a feeling of fullness or bloating, nausea, stomach pain, abdominal swelling, and dyspnea.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Classified as Pregnancy Category C. The excretion of lubiprostone in human milk is not established. Infants fed breast milk should be monitored for diarrhea if the mother is taking lubiprostone. Caution is advised for nursing women.

Precautions & Warnings

• Nausea: Patients may experience nausea, which can be mitigated by taking Lubistone with food.
• Diarrhea: Avoid prescribing to patients with severe diarrhea.
• Bowel Obstruction: Ensure thorough evaluation for mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction symptoms before initiating Lubistone therapy.

Overdose Effects

Possible overdose reactions include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, flushing, dyspnea, and syncope.

Therapeutic Class

Other laxative preparations.

Storage Conditions

Store between 15-30°C.