Tegaserod (By Mouth)

Tegaserod (teg-a-SER-od)

Treats irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women whose main problem is constipation.

Brand Name(s):

Zelnorm
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tegaserod, or if you have severe kidney disease or liver disease. You should not use this medicine if you have ever had certain other problems with your digestive system, such as a blocked intestine, symptoms of gallbladder disease, or scar tissue.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach, before a meal.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
• Do not take this medicine if you are having frequent diarrhea. This medicine is only for women whose main symptom of IBS is constipation.
• Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor if your stomach pain gets worse or you have new stomach pain.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe cramping, abdominal pain, dizziness
• Severe diarrhea
• Severe nausea, vomiting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back pain or cramps
• Headache
• Mild diarrhea (may happen one or two times when you first start using this medicine)
• Mild nausea, vomiting, or gas

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.