Question 1

What is Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

Plecanatide belongs to a class of drugs called guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonists. It acts by mimicking a natural protein in the body that controls the movement of salt and water into the intestinal space.

This increase in intestinal fluid helps to soften stool and accelerate its transit through the digestive system. By promoting these changes, the medication assists in maintaining more regular bowel movements.

Question 2

What is Plecanatide used for?

Accepted Answer

Plecanatide is used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation .

Question 3

How does Plecanatide work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Plecanatide belongs to a class of medications known as guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonists. It works locally in the gastrointestinal tract and is minimally absorbed into the rest of the body.

The medication mimics the action of uroguanylin, a peptide that occurs naturally in the human body. When plecanatide attaches to specific receptors on the lining of the intestines, it increases the production of a substance called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This process leads to several effects in the digestive system:

Increased Fluid: It stimulates the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestines.

Water Movement: Water follows these electrolytes into the intestines, which helps to hydrate and soften the stool.

Faster Transit: The increased volume and fluid levels help speed up the movement of waste through the bowels.

By increasing intestinal fluid and transit time, plecanatide helps relieve symptoms of constipation and improves the frequency of bowel movements.

Question 4

What are the brand names for Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

Plecanatide is sold under the brand name Trulance .

Question 5

What are the active ingredients in Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Plecanatide is plecanatide .

Question 6

What are the side effects of Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Plecanatide may include diarrhea . Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 7

What drug class is Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

Plecanatide belongs to the guanylate cyclase-C agonist drug class.

Question 8

What is the dosage of Plecanatide and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Plecanatide

Plecanatide is typically taken once a day. You can take this medication with or without food. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions exactly and take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent routine.

The tablet should generally be swallowed whole. If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, you may crush the tablet and mix it with a small amount of room-temperature water or applesauce. If mixing with applesauce, consume the entire mixture immediately; do not store it for later use. If mixing with water, the tablet may not dissolve completely, which is normal. Drink the entire mixture right away.

For patients with a feeding tube, plecanatide can be crushed and mixed with water to be administered through a nasogastric or gastric tube. Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to properly flush the tube before and after administration.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of plecanatide, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Question 9

Is Plecanatide safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There is limited information about the safety of using plecanatide during pregnancy. Because the drug is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream after being taken by mouth, it is not expected to result in significant exposure to a developing fetus. Animal studies have not shown evidence of harm to the fetus at doses much higher than the human dose. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits.

Breastfeeding

It is not known if plecanatide passes into breast milk or if it affects a nursing infant or milk production. Since the medication is not well-absorbed into the body, levels in breast milk are likely to be very low. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed to discuss whether this medication is appropriate for you.

Question 10

What forms and strengths does Plecanatide come in?

Accepted Answer

Plecanatide is available as a tablet for oral administration.

The tablet is typically swallowed whole. For patients who have difficulty swallowing, the tablet may be crushed and mixed with soft food or water. It can also be prepared as a liquid mixture for administration through a feeding tube.

Question 11

What is the FDA approval status of Plecanatide?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Plecanatide received its initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017. It is currently indicated for use in adults for the following conditions:

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC): A condition characterized by persistent constipation with no known structural or biochemical cause.

Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C): A functional gastrointestinal disorder involving abdominal pain and constipation.

Boxed Warning

The FDA has issued a boxed warning for plecanatide regarding the risk of serious dehydration in pediatric patients. The medication is contraindicated in children younger than 6 years of age. Healthcare providers are also advised to avoid the use of plecanatide in patients aged 6 years to less than 18 years, as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been established in these age groups.

Regulatory Status

Plecanatide is available only by prescription. It is not a controlled substance. While the medication carries a boxed warning, the FDA does not currently require a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program for its distribution.

Question 12

What should I know about Plecanatide and cost?

Accepted Answer

Insurance Coverage

The out-of-pocket cost for plecanatide varies depending on your health insurance plan. Most plans include a list of covered medications, and the cost will depend on which tier the drug is assigned to. Patients with high-deductible plans may pay more until their deductible is met.

Pharmacy Pricing

Retail prices for plecanatide can differ between pharmacies. Factors such as location and whether the pharmacy is a large chain or an independent provider can affect the final price. Using mail-order pharmacy services through an insurance provider may sometimes offer a lower cost for a multi-month supply.

Generic Availability

Plecanatide is currently available as a brand-name medication. Generic versions, which typically cost less, may not be available until patent protections expire. You can ask a pharmacist for the most up-to-date information on the availability of a generic version.

Financial Assistance

Some individuals may qualify for financial assistance programs or savings cards offered by the manufacturer. These programs are often intended to help reduce the cost for patients who meet specific eligibility requirements, such as having commercial insurance or meeting certain income criteria.

Plecanatide

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Brand Names

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

Additional Resources

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