{"id":2546003,"date":"2023-06-14T18:29:22","date_gmt":"2023-06-14T22:29:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/linzess-receives-fda-approval-for-treating-constipation-in-children-and-teens-according-to-drugs-com-mednews\/"},"modified":"2023-06-14T18:29:22","modified_gmt":"2023-06-14T22:29:22","slug":"linzess-receives-fda-approval-for-treating-constipation-in-children-and-teens-according-to-drugs-com-mednews","status":"publish","type":"platowire","link":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/linzess-receives-fda-approval-for-treating-constipation-in-children-and-teens-according-to-drugs-com-mednews\/","title":{"rendered":"Linzess Receives FDA Approval for Treating Constipation in Children and Teens, According to Drugs.com MedNews"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Linzess, a medication used to treat constipation in adults, has recently received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in children and teenagers. This is a significant development as constipation is a common problem among children and adolescents, and until now, there were limited treatment options available.<\/p>\n

According to Drugs.com MedNews, Linzess is a prescription medication that works by increasing the movement of stool through the intestines. It is classified as a guanylate cyclase-C agonist and is taken orally once a day on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day.<\/p>\n

The FDA approval for Linzess to be used in children and teenagers was based on two clinical trials involving 624 participants aged 6 to 17 years old. The studies showed that Linzess was effective in treating constipation in this age group, with participants experiencing an increase in bowel movements and a decrease in symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort.<\/p>\n

Constipation is a common problem among children and teenagers, with up to 30% of children experiencing it at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, certain medications, and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or hypothyroidism.<\/p>\n

Untreated constipation can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fecal impaction. It can also cause psychological distress and affect a child’s quality of life.<\/p>\n

While there are other medications available to treat constipation in children and teenagers, such as laxatives and stool softeners, they may not be effective for all patients and can have side effects such as cramping and diarrhea.<\/p>\n

Linzess offers a new treatment option for children and teenagers with constipation, with the added benefit of being well-tolerated and having minimal side effects. However, it is important to note that Linzess is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6, and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.<\/p>\n

In conclusion, the FDA approval of Linzess for use in children and teenagers is a significant development in the treatment of constipation in this age group. It offers a safe and effective treatment option for a common problem that can have significant health and quality of life implications. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.<\/p>\n