In this Article

• What is alosetron (Lotronex)?
• What are the possible side effects of alosetron (Lotronex)?
• What is the most important information I should know about alosetron (Lotronex)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alosetron (Lotronex)?
• How should I take alosetron (Lotronex)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Lotronex)?
• What happens if I overdose (Lotronex)?
• What should I avoid while taking alosetron (Lotronex)?
• What other drugs will affect alosetron (Lotronex)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alosetron (Lotronex)?

Do not use alosetron if you have:

• constipation (especially if it is your main IBS symptom);
• a history of severe or ongoing constipation;
• obstruction or perforation of your intestines;
• Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or diverticulitis;
• blood clots, or circulation problems affecting your intestines;
• severe liver disease; or
• if you are also taking fluvoxamine (Luvox) to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any of the conditions listed above.

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 develop new or worsening constipation, stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, or blood in your stools (bowel movements). If constipation does not improve or if it gets worse, do not start taking alosetron again until you talk to your doctor.

FDA pregnancy category B. Alosetron is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether alosetron passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take alosetron without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults and those who are ill or debilitated may be more likely to have serious complications from constipation.

This medicine should not be given to a child younger than 18 years old.

How should I take alosetron (Lotronex)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Alosetron may be taken with or without food.

Stop taking alosetron and call your doctor if you become constipated while taking alosetron.

Alosetron does not improve the symptoms of IBS for everyone. When alosetron does work well, it helps reduce stomach pain and discomfort, bowel urgency, and diarrhea. Some or all symptoms may improve within one to two weeks of treatment.

Alosetron is not a cure for irritable bowel syndrome. If you stop taking alosetron, symptoms may return within one week.

Stop taking alosetron if your IBS symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. If you stop taking alosetron, do not start taking it again without your doctor's advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.