Alosetron: A Comprehensive Medication Guide

Names of Medication

Alosetron is most commonly known by its brand name, Lotronex.

Pharmacologic Category

Alosetron is categorized as a Serotonin-3 Receptor Antagonist. It shares this category with other drugs like ondansetron (Zofran) and granisetron (Kytril), which are primarily used to prevent nausea and vomiting.

Dosing

Alosetron is prescribed to treat Severe Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) in women who have not responded to conventional therapy. The usual dose is 0.5 mg taken orally twice daily. After four weeks, if the initial dose is well-tolerated but does not adequately control IBS symptoms, the dosage may be increased to 1 mg twice daily. Always remember, it’s crucial not to adjust your medication dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Alosetron is available in the form of a tablet in two strengths: 0.5 mg and 1 mg.

Administration Instructions

Alosetron should be taken twice a day with or without food. Try to take it at the same time every day to help you remember. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Alosetron can cause several side effects. The most common adverse reactions are constipation (29%) and abdominal discomfort and pain (7%). Constipation is a result of slowed intestinal transit, which occurs due to Alosetron’s primary action on the serotonin-3 receptors in the gut. Other potential side effects include nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, and hemorrhoids. Be sure to contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe constipation or signs of ischemic colitis, such as new or worsening stomach pain or blood in your stool.

Contraindications to Taking Alosetron

A contraindication refers to a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Alosetron is contraindicated in patients with a history of chronic or severe constipation or sequelae from constipation, intestinal obstruction, stricture, toxic megacolon, gastrointestinal perforation, and adhesions, due to the increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including ischemic colitis.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Alosetron should be used with caution in patients who are concurrently taking medications that can increase constipation, such as opioid pain medications like hydrocodone (Vicodin) or oxycodone (OxyContin), and certain antidepressants like amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil). This is because the combined constipating effects of these drugs can increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects.

Alosetron in Pregnancy

Alosetron falls into category B for pregnancy. This means that animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well -controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while on Alosetron.

Alosetron while Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Alosetron passes into breast milk. Because many medications can pass into breast milk and have the potential to harm a nursing infant, breastfeeding while using Alosetron is not recommended without your doctor’s advice.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of Alosetron (Lotronex) at a dose of 0.5 mg twice daily is approximately $800 – $1000 without insurance, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Prices are for cash paying customers only and are not valid with insurance plans. This Alosetron price guide is based on using the GoodRx discount card which is accepted at most U.S. pharmacies. Please note that these prices may vary in different locations and over time due to agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. Always consult your pharmacist for the most accurate pricing information.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Summary

Alosetron (Lotronex) is a Serotonin-3 Receptor Antagonist used for the treatment of severe diarrhea-predominant IBS-D in women. It is essential to adhere to your doctor’s instructions while taking Alosetron, as misuse could lead to severe side effects including constipation and ischemic colitis. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

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Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.