Amitiza and Linzess are both FDA-approved prescription medications indicated for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Both drugs belong to the class of guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonists, which work by increasing the secretion of fluid into the intestines, softening stool and making it easier to pass.
However, despite their similarities, there are differences between these two medications in terms of their formulations, dosages, side effects, and efficacy. For instance, Amitiza is available in capsule form and is administered orally, while Linzess comes in a tablet form and is also taken orally.
Additionally, the recommended dosages of these medications may differ based on the patient’s age, medical condition, and other factors. Moreover, Amitiza and Linzess may have different side effects, with Amitiza causing nausea, diarrhea, and headaches, while Linzess may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence.
Furthermore, the efficacy of these drugs may also vary based on the patient’s individual response to the medication. Some patients may experience more significant improvements in their symptoms with Amitiza, while others may respond better to Linzess.
Amitiza and Linzess have different formulations. Amitiza comes in two different formulations: a 24 mcg capsule and an 8 mcg capsule. The 24 mcg capsule is used to treat CIC in adults, while the 8 mcg capsule is used to treat IBS-C in women. Both formulations are taken orally twice daily with food.
Linzess is only available in one formulation: a 290 mcg capsule. It is indicated for the treatment of both CIC and IBS-C in adults and is taken orally once daily. It can be taken with or without food. The dosages of the medications vary, and healthcare providers will prescribe the appropriate dosage depending on the patient’s condition and medical history.
Dosage Amitiza vs Linzess
To treat CIC with Amitiza, the recommended starting dose is 24 mcg twice daily, while for IBS-C, the starting dose is 8 mcg twice daily. These doses can be increased up to a maximum of 48 mcg twice daily for CIC and 24 mcg twice daily for IBS-C if needed.
For Linzess, the recommended dose is 290 mcg taken once daily, and this dose can be adjusted up to a maximum of 290 mcg twice daily if necessary. However, it is important to note that Amitiza and Linzess have different dosing regimens and indications, so they should not be used interchangeably.
Side Effects
Although Amitiza and Linzess share common side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, the severity and frequency of these side effects may vary between the two medications. Patients taking Amitiza are more likely to experience more severe and frequent diarrhea, which affects around 30% of patients, while only 7% of patients taking Linzess experience this side effect. Headaches are also reported more frequently with Amitiza than with Linzess. On the other hand, patients taking Linzess are more likely to experience abdominal pain and discomfort, affecting around 6% of patients, compared to only 3% of patients taking Amitiza. Flatulence is also more commonly reported with Linzess than with Amitiza.
Amitiza vs Linzess – which is better in terms of efficiacy?
Both Amitiza and Linzess are effective medications for treating CIC and IBS-C, but the extent of their efficacy can vary between them. Clinical trials have shown that Amitiza can increase the frequency of bowel movements and improve stool consistency in patients with CIC. In addition, it has been shown to improve overall symptoms and increase the frequency of bowel movements in patients with IBS-C. Approximately 17% of patients taking Amitiza experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms for CIC, and 27% of patients experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms for IBS-C.
Similarly, Linzess has also been shown to increase the frequency of bowel movements and improve stool consistency in patients with CIC. Additionally, it has been shown to improve overall symptoms, including abdominal pain and discomfort, and increase the frequency of bowel movements in patients with IBS-C. Approximately 21% of patients taking Linzess experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms for CIC, and 34% of patients experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms for IBS-C.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the efficacy of these medications may vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of their condition and their individual response to the medication. It may be necessary for patients to try both medications to determine which one works best for them.
Cost – Which is Cheaper?
The price of Amitiza and Linzess may fluctuate due to several factors, such as insurance coverage and the pharmacy where the medication is purchased. In general, Linzess is more expensive compared to Amitiza.
A 30-day supply of Amitiza costs around $500 on average, while a 30-day supply of Linzess costs around $700 on average. However, most insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost of these drugs, making them more affordable for patients.
Amitiza vs Linzes – What do clinical studies state?
In conclusion, both Amitiza and Linzess are prescription medications used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. They belong to a class of drugs known as guanylate cyclase-C agonists and work by increasing the secretion of fluid into the intestines, making stool easier to pass.
Clinical studies have shown that both medications can be effective in treating CIC and IBS-C, although the degree of efficacy can vary between the two medications. Amitiza has been shown to increase the frequency of bowel movements and improve stool consistency in patients with CIC and IBS-C. Linzess has also been shown to increase the frequency of bowel movements and improve stool consistency in patients with CIC, but it has been shown to be more effective in improving overall symptoms, including abdominal pain and discomfort, in patients with IBS-C.
Both medications can cause similar side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, but the incidence and severity of these side effects can vary between the two medications. Amitiza is known to cause more frequent and severe diarrhea compared to Linzess, while Linzess is more likely to cause abdominal pain and discomfort than Amitiza.
The cost of Amitiza and Linzess can vary depending on insurance coverage and the pharmacy where the medication is purchased, but in general, Linzess tends to be more expensive than Amitiza. It is important for patients to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each medication with their healthcare provider to determine which medication may be more appropriate for their individual needs.
