Alosetron
Generic name: alosetron (oral) [ a-LO-ze-tron ]
Brand name: Lotronex
Dosage form: oral tablet (0.5 mg; 1 mg)
Drug class:Serotoninergic neuroenteric modulators
What is alosetron?
Alosetron blocks the action of a chemical called serotonin in the intestines. This slows the movement of stools (bowel movements) through the intestines.
Alosetron is used to treat severe, chronic irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women with diarrhea as the main symptom for at least 6 months. Alosetron is given after other treatments have failed.
Alosetron is not a cure for irritable bowel syndrome. After you stop taking alosetron, your symptoms may return within 1 week.
Alosetron has not been shown to be effective in men with IBS.
Alosetron may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Alosetron should be used only by women with severe irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea as the main symptom.
Do not start taking alosetron if you are constipated. You also should not take alosetron if you take another medicine called fluvoxamine (Luvox).
Serious or fatal side effects on the stomach and intestines have occurred in some people taking alosetron. In rare cases, alosetron has caused severe constipation, or ischemic colitis (caused by reduced blood flow to the intestines).
Stop taking alosetron and call your doctor right away if you have: new or worsening constipation, stomach pain, bright or dark red blood in your stools, or bloody diarrhea. You may need to permanently discontinue this medicine if you have these side effects.
If you stop taking alosetron for any reason, do not start taking it again without your doctor's advice.
Before taking this medicine
Do not take alosetron if you have ever had any of the following conditions:
constipation (especially if it is your main IBS symptom);
a history of severe or ongoing constipation;
obstruction or perforation of your intestines;
blood clots, or circulation problems affecting your intestines;
severe liver disease; or
