Prucalopride: An Overview
Summary or Key Points
Prucalopride is an effective medication used to treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation in adults. It helps in increasing bowel movements and relieving associated symptoms. However, it’s essential to understand the appropriate dosing, potential side effects, and how to take it correctly. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regime, and consider utilizing our telemedicine services for convenient care.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Motegrity (Prucalopride)
The ‘generic name’ is the official medical name for the active ingredient in the medication, which in this case is Prucalopride. This is listed in parentheses after the brand name, Motegrity.
Pharmacologic Category
Prucalopride is part of a class of medications known as selective serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonists. Other medications in this category include Tegaserod and Mosapride.
Dosing
Prucalopride is indicated for the treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation in adults. The usual dose is 2mg once daily. The treatment length varies based on individual response and is determined by your healthcare provider. Always consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If you need to speak with a healthcare provider, our telemedicine services are available for a quick, convenient consultation.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Prucalopride (Motegrity) is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Tablets: 1 mg and 2 mg
Administration Instructions
Prucalopride is taken orally, with or without food. It should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, or chewed. If a dose is missed, it should not be made up with a double dose; simply take the next dose at your regular time.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Like any medication, Prucalopride can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences these, but it’s important to be aware of them. The frequency of these side effects varies, but they may include:
- Common: Headache, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea.
- Less Common: Dizziness, fatigue, abnormal bowel movements.
Always reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience any adverse reactions to Prucalopride. Remember, you can always access our healthcare providers quickly and conveniently through our telemedicine services.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a condition or factor that increases the risk associated with using a particular drug. In simpler terms, it’s a reason not to take a specific medication. Prucalopride is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to the drug because this can lead to severe allergic reactions.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Prucalopride can interact with other medications, potentially impacting their effectiveness or causing adverse reactions. Some of these include:
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Erythromycin (EryPed, Ery-Tab, PCE)
Prucalopride in Pregnancy
The safety of Prucalopride during pregnancy is not fully established. Some animal studies have shown adverse effects, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Prucalopride should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Always discuss this with your healthcare provider, who you can quickly reach through our telemedicine services.
Prucalopride while Breastfeeding
Prucalopride is excreted into breast milk in very small amounts. While it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant, the risk vs. benefit should be discussed with your healthcare provider before use.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Prucalopride (2mg tablets), without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $300. Remember that prices can vary based on location, pharmacy, and changes in drug pricing.
Possible Alternatives
For Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, lifestyle changes can often help alleviate symptoms. These may include a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and adequate fluid intake. Other medications such as laxatives, fiber supplements, or other prescription drugs may also be options. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, and consider using our telemedicine services for a consultation right from your home.
Recent Updates on Prucalopride Research
Research on Prucalopride continues, with studies focusing on its long-term safety and efficacy. Some recent studies have further confirmed its effectiveness and good tolerability in patients with Chronic Idiopathic Constipation, showing promising results even in long-term use. However, every patient’s response may vary, so it’s always best to discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine services can offer quick and convenient access to professionals ready to guide you through your treatment options.
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.
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.