Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is a selective serotonin receptor agonist used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women who have constipation as the main symptom. Zelnorm (Tegaserod)would not be used to treat IBS in women who have diarrhea as their major symptom. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) has not been shown to work in men with IBS.
It is not clear why some people develop IBS with constipation and others do not. Many people have been told that their condition was simply a result of stress, or something they ate. However, in the past few years, a greater understanding of the cause of this condition has started to emerge.
If you are experiencing abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and constipation, you may have a gastrointestinal (GI) tract that's more sensitive and works more slowly than it should. This may be due to the way your GI tract reacts to changes in serotonin, a naturally occurring chemical in your body. Serotonin plays an important role in making your GI tract work normally.
Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is the first-and only-medicine proven to relieve all 3 symptoms of IBS with constipation in women: Abdominal pain or discomfort, Bloating, and Constipation-the ABCs.
Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is a medicine for the short-term treatment of women who have IBS with constipation as their main bowel problem. Women with this medical condition suffer from abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and constipation. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) does not work in all women and has not been shown to work in men with IBS.
Zelnorm (Tegaserod) works differently from laxatives, fiber, and other medications. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) imitates the action of serotonin, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that helps keep your gastrointestinal (GI) tract working normally. Only prescription Zelnorm (Tegaserod) coordinates the nerves, muscles, and fluid in the GI tract, so it starts functioning more normally.
Zelnorm (Tegaserod) should be taken twice a day, or as prescribed by your doctor. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is a small tablet you take on an empty stomach shortly before a meal. It's best to develop a regular routine for taking Zelnorm (Tegaserod), such as before breakfast and dinner. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) should be taken for 4 to 6 weeks to treat your IBS with constipation symptoms. If you feel better, your doctor may prescribe an additional 4 to 6 weeks of Zelnorm (Tegaserod).
Zelnorm side effects that may occur include headache, stomach pain, joint pain, or diarrhea. If Zelnorm side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If Zelnorm side effects like diarrhea occurs, it may be only temporary during the first week of treatment. If it occurs, your doctor may recommend that you drink plenty of liquids to avoid becoming dehydrated. If the diarrhea does not resolve on it own after 2 days or if you feel weak or have severe cramping or dizziness, consult your doctor immediately.Zelnorm side effects are unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if Zelnorm side effects occur. Symptoms of an Zelnorm side effects include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other Zelnorm side effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
IT MAY TAKE UP TO 4 WEEKS for ZELNORM to work. If you experience different or suddenly worsening stomach pain compared to your regular IBS symptoms, stop taking ZELNORM and call your doctor immediately. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE without checking with your doctor. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using ZELNORM during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF ZELNORM IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking ZELNORM.