Zelnorm (Tegaserod) for IBS-C

Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is a drug used to treat IBS- C. It works by increasing the movement of stools in the intestine. This medication was discontinued in 2007 due to cardiovascular side effects.

But it can still be used in certain patients with persistent constipation.

Serotonin’s activity in the intestines is boosted by the drug Zelnorm. As a result, feces pass through the bowels more quickly.

Uses of Zelnorm

Women under the age of 65 with severe, persistent constipation-related irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are treated with Zelnorm.

Zelnorm works by promoting gastrointestinal motility. This shortens the time feces stays in the gut and eases symptoms like constipation and discomfort in the abdomen. It has not been shown that this medication helps men with IBS.

Mechanism of Action of Zelnorm:

Zelnorm works by attaching to 5-HT4 receptors, which causes peristalsis to increase and the sensory response to decrease.

As a 5-HT4 agonist, it treats IBS constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort throughout the GI tract.

• stimulates intestinal secretion and the peristaltic reflex
• suppresses visceral sensitivity
• improves basal motor function
• restores the GI tract’s reduced motility to normal

Pharmacodynamics

Zelnorm is typically reported to be an agonist at serotonin type-4 (5-HT(4)) receptors and an antagonist at 5-HT(2B) receptors, while it is also likely to have very little affinity for 5-HT(1) receptors and very none for 5-HT(3) or dopamine receptors.

It was also discovered that Zelnorm and its main metabolite, the M29 metabolite, might encourage platelet aggregation in a lab setting.

Zelnorm considerably boosted platelet aggregation in one in-vitro research at concentrations up to 10 times the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) at the indicated dose, increasing it by up to 74% (range 11% to 74%) compared to a control vehicle (with potentiation by different agonists). [ref]

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of Zelnorm in subjects who are fasting is 10%. One hour after peaking, the Zelnorm plasma concentration (Tmax) averages its peak (range 0.7 to 2 hours). [ref]

However, when Zelnorm was given to people 30 minutes before a meal with a high-fat and high-calorie content (roughly 150 calories from protein, 250 calories from carbohydrates, and 250 calories from fat), the serum blood concentration of the drug was decreased by 40% to 65%.

Route of Elimination

After being taken orally, Zelnorm is partially removed intact in the feces, with the remaining one-third being eliminated in the urine as metabolites.

Half-Life

Zelnorm’s documented mean terminal elimination half-life after oral treatment is between 4.6 and 8.1 hours.

Zelnorm Dosage Information

Follow your doctor’s instructions for using Zelnorm strictly. Never take it in excess or for longer than is advised. Observe the following instructions:

• Take this medicine with a full glass of water. On an empty stomach, or at least 30 minutes before a meal.
• The usual dosage for Zelnorm is twice daily.
• It can take up to 2 weeks for the symptoms to disappear.
• Continue taking the medication as prescribed for the best effects. If your symptoms do not disappear after treatment for 4 to 6 weeks, consult your doctor.
• The dosage for adult women under the age of 65 is 6 mg given orally twice daily at least 30 minutes before meals.
• Stop using Zelnorm if you do not experience satisfactory symptom control after 4 to 6 weeks of treatment

What occurs if I don’t take a dose?

If you forget to take your prescription or miss a dosage, wait until it’s time for your next dose and skip the missed one. Do not take additional medicine to make up for a missed dosage.

If I take too much, what happens?

If you believe you may have taken too much of this medication, get emergency medical attention.

Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort are all possible overdose symptoms.

While using Zelnorm, abide by your doctor’s recommendations regarding any dietary or exercise limitations

Side Effects of Zelnorm:

There are advantages and disadvantages to every drug. You could have some unpleasant side effects even if the drug is performing as intended.

If you encounter any of the following, speak with your physician.

• Stroke symptoms include sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, vision loss, and difficulty speaking, walking, or talking.
• Thoughts and actions that are suicidal
• Extreme diarrhea

New or worsening stomach pain, rectal bleeding, and bloody diarrhea are symptoms of intestinal enlargement and damage (ischemic colitis).

As your body adjusts to the drug, the following adverse effects could improve over time. If these symptoms persist or if they get worse over time, call your doctor right away.

Typical adverse consequences

• Vomiting
• Migraine
• Constipation
• Gastritis
• Unsteadiness

Added negative consequences

• Tendon enlargement
• Blood in the urine
• Weakness
• Low level of red blood cells
• More appetite
• Joint issue

Rare Side Effects

• Nausea
• Discomfort or pain in the neck, back, jaw, or arms
• Sweating
• Dual perception
• Headache
• Chest discomfort
• Confusion
• Having trouble speaking
• Inability to move the facial muscles, arms, or legs
• Being unable to talk
• Attempts or ideas to end one’s life

Signs of Zelnorm overdose

The following signs appear if the drug overdoses:

• Feeling unsteady or weak after standing up from a lying or seated posture
• Bloated and full of energy
• Chills
• Extra gas or air in the intestines or stomach
• Headache

Some potential side effects frequently don’t need medical attention. During therapy, as your body adjusts to the medicine, these adverse effects could disappear.

Your doctor may also be able to provide you with advice on how to prevent or decrease some of these adverse effects. Consult a doctor if any of the following adverse effects continue or if you have any concerns.

Patients’ Reviews of Zelnorm:

How real-life users felt when they were prescribed Zelnorm for IBS-C? Here are a few reviews of patients using Zelnorm for IBS-C:

Conclusion:

Zelnorm (Tegaserod) is a medication used to treat IBS-C in women. It works effectively to treat the symptoms such as abdominal pain. However, it should be used only when directed by a healthcare professional.