Zelnorm
Generic Name:
Tegaserod maleate
Brand Names:
Zelnorm
Zelnorm Description:
Zelnorm is the registered trade name for the drug tegaserod maleate manufactured by Novartis for the short-term treatment of women with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and for patients younger than 65 years of age with chronic constipation.
Zelnorm was suspended from the market by Novartis at the request of the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Following the market suspension in March 2007, Novartis initiated an access program called IND in collaboration with the FDA so that patients in need of the treatment could receive Zelnorm in a controlled environment. The manufacturer, however, communicated the decision to close the program on April 2, 2008. Patients who had access to Zelnorm via the IND program are instructed to talk to their physicians about alternative treatment options.
Zelnorm Uses:
Zelnorm was a medication used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women whose principal symptom was constipation. IBS is a condition characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and altered bowel function. Severe forms of IBS can affect a person’s ability to work and participate in their everyday lives. Zelnorm was indicated as a short-term treatment of IBS. The drug relieves constipation by increasing the effect of the chemical called serotonin in the intestines. This shortens the transit time of the stool in the bowel, thus alleviating stomach pain and bloating. Zelnorm was also prescribed for women younger than 55 years of age who suffered from severe, long-term constipation and had tried other medications without results, and who were free of cardiovascular disease. The medication was not used to treat IBS in women who presented diarrhea as their major symptom. Please note that this drug is no longer available.
Zelnorm Interactions:
Speak with your doctor before taking any prescription medicines in order to see if other drugs will interact. Also notify your doctor of the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with Zelnorm.
Zelnorm Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendation:
Zelnorm was delivered in tablet form to be taken with a full glass of water. This medication was administered by mouth, usually twice daily before meals, or as directed by the doctor. Zelnorm was prescribed as a short-term treatment usually lasting 4 to 6 weeks.
Missing a Dose:
If you miss a dose, wait until it is time for your next dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdosing:
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Zelnorm FDA Approval:
Originally approved July 24, 2002; now discontinued.
Zelnorm Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Zelnorm was withdrawn from the market on March 30, 2007, due to studies that linked the drug with heart problems, heart attacks, stroke, and chest pain.
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