See information below on IBS and this treatment. To create a Treatment Checklist, go to the bottom of the screen and enter your information in the four sections: 1) past or present use, 2) frequency and duration, 3) did this treatment work?, and 4) significant side effects. To see the next treatment either click on the treatment list at the bottom of the screen or click ‘Save and Continue to Next Treatment.’ Click ‘Submit (Done)’ to generate a list to print or email, to discuss with your physician.

Alosetron (Lotronex)

How it works:
Acts on specific serotonin receptors targeting nerves in the intestinal tract. These nerves can sense pain and are responsible for bowel function.
Which symptoms it helps:
Overall IBS symptoms, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
How long it takes to see a benefit:
Within one week.
Who may benefit:
Women with severe IBS-D.
FDA approved:
Women with severe IBS-D.
Dosage:
0.5-1mg tablet.
Special considerations or risks:
Serious and sometimes fatal gastrointestinal adverse events including ischemic colitis, and serious complications of constipation, have been reported. Alosetron should not be used among individuals with a history of constipation, adhesions, intestinal obstruction or stricture, impaired intestinal circulation, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, or a hypercoagulable state. Discontinue use immediately in patients who develop symptoms of constipation or ischemic colitis.
Most common side effects:
Constipation, ischemic colitis.

Recommendation:
ACG recommends alosetron for overall symptom improvement in women with severe IBS-D.

Recommendation:
WEAK
Quality of Evidence:
MODERATE
Level of Evidence:
√
Past and Present Use Frequency and Duration Did this treatment work? Significant Side Effects
Past Use   Present Use   Yes   No   N/A