Prucalopride for constipation

About prucalopride

Constipation in adults is a common problem. It means either going to the toilet less often than usual to empty the bowels, or passing hard or painful stools when you do go. It can be caused by not eating enough fibre or not drinking enough fluids, or a lack of exercise or movement (such as being ill in bed). It can also be a side-effect of certain medicines (such as some painkillers), or related to an underlying medical condition. In many cases, the cause is not clear.

Prucalopride works on the muscle wall of the bowels. It increases the movement of the bowels, making stools easier to pass. It can be helpful for people for whom constipation remains a problem despite having made changes to lifestyle and diet, and despite having tried a number of different laxatives.

Before taking prucalopride

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking prucalopride it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

• If you are so constipated that you think you may have a blockage.

• If you have any other bowel condition (such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon).

• If you have a heart condition or have been told that you have an unusual heart rhythm.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works or with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take prucalopride tablets

• Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about prucalopride and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Take prucalopride tablets exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is usual to be prescribed one (2 mg) tablet to take once daily. You may be given a lower-strength tablet if you are over 65 years old, or if you have any problems with your liver or kidneys.

• Swallow the tablet with a drink of water. You can take the tablet at a time of day to suit you. It is recommended that you take your doses at the same time of day each day, as doing this can help you to remember to take your doses regularly. You can take prucalopride tablets before or after food.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, leave out the forgotten dose and take the dose that is due. Do not take two tablets at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Remember to keep any regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.

• A healthy diet containing fibre (wholegrain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) with several glasses of water each day and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function.

• You can read our leaflet called Fibre and Fibre Supplements for advice on ways to increase the amount of fibre in your diet.

• You should avoid getting pregnant while you are taking prucalopride. Make sure you have discussed with your doctor which types of contraception are suitable for you and your partner.

Can prucalopride cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with prucalopride. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the tablets, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store prucalopride

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines