Both drugs are effective for treating IBS-C but have a few differences.

These electrolytes draw more water into the stool and make stools softer and easier to pass.

Which Is More Effective?

Close up of woman’s hand holding a pill capsule and glass of water

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However, Ibsrela shows comparable effectiveness to Linzess, even though it was brought to market more recently.

Can You Take Them Together?

Taking Linzess and Ibsrela together can overtreat constipation and lead to diarrhea.

You should talk to your healthcare provider to help decide which treatment option is best for you.

Other Precautions

Stay hydrated when taking Ibsrela or Linzess to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.

Watch for severe diarrhea or diarrhea that doesn’t get better.

Maintaining a diet rich in fiber can help manage excess bloating.

Consult your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

This is because Ibsrela inhibits a protein that absorbs enalapril.

Taking enalapril with Ibsrela may require a higher dosage to achieve the desired effect on blood pressure.

Linzess may increase the frequency of diarrhea.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist to identify if you are on other medications that may cause diarrhea.

Linzess is a capsule taken once daily, 30 minutes before the first meal of the day.

Linzess is available in 72 mcg, 145 mcg, or 290 mcg strengths.

Which Is Best for You?

Choosing between Ibsrela and Linzess may depend on your personal preferences or symptoms.

Ibsrela may be a better choice if you are concerned about bloating.

Linzess might be a better choice if you prefer once-a-day dosing.

Some people try both medications and then select which better suits their needs.

Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for you.

Both work by increasing electrolytes in the small intestines, which causes the stool to absorb more water.

This leads to the softening of the stool and relief of constipation.

A common side effect of both of these medications is diarrhea.

Depending on the specific concerns at hand, a provider or patient may opt for Ibsrela or Linzess.

Ibsrela is helpful for people whose primary symptoms include bloating but require twice-daily dosing.

DailyMed.Ibsrela- tenapanor hydrochloride tablet.

DailyMed.Linzess- linaclotide capsule, gelatin coated.

2021 May;160(6):2227-2228. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.04.017.].Gastroenterology.

2012;107(11):1714-1724. doi:10.1038/ajg.2012.255

DailyMed.Amitiza- lubiprostone capsule, gelatin coated.

DailyMed.Trulance Immediate Release- plecanatide tablet.

2023;15(7):1647. doi:10.3390/nu15071647