What is the brand name for Linaclotide?
The brand name for Linaclotide is Linzess.
PTCB TOP 200 · #178
Linaclotide
Linzess
Linaclotide is the generic name for the brand-name drug Linzess. It is a gc-c agonist (ibs-c/constipation) used to treat IBS-C, chronic constipation. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Linaclotide ranks #178 and is one of the most frequently tested gastrointestinal medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Linaclotide |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Linzess |
| Drug class | GC-C agonist (IBS-C/constipation) |
| Class group | Gastrointestinal |
| Common use | IBS-C, chronic constipation |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Linaclotide used for?
Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (adult; other age indications product-specific).
What drug class is Linaclotide?
Linaclotide is a GC-C agonist (IBS-C/constipation) in the Gastrointestinal group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Linaclotide
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightGas/flatulence
- arrow_rightBloating
- arrow_rightAbdominal distension
Major interactions
- arrow_rightNo major systemic drug interactions expected (minimal systemic absorption)
- arrow_rightOther laxatives can increase diarrhea/dehydration risk
- arrow_rightDrugs with narrow therapeutic index may have altered absorption if severe diarrhea occurs
Is Linaclotide a controlled substance?
No. Linaclotide is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
Risk of serious dehydration in pediatric patients less than 2 years of age; contraindicated in <2 years.
How to remember Linaclotide (PTCE mnemonic)
LIN-zess LINes the gut with fluid — linaclotide activates GC-C (IBS-C/CIC). Take EMPTY STOMACH 30 min before breakfast; DIARRHEA is dose-limiting; contraindicated <2yo (boxed); avoid 2 to <6yo.
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PTCE exam tip
Linaclotide's boxed warning is pediatric — contraindicated in young children (fatal dehydration risk) — and it's taken on an empty stomach for IBS-C.
Linaclotide FAQ
What is Linaclotide used for?
Linaclotide is used to treat IBS-C, chronic constipation. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (adult; other age indications product-specific).
What drug class is Linaclotide?
Linaclotide is a GC-C agonist (IBS-C/constipation) (Gastrointestinal group).
Is Linaclotide a controlled substance?
No. Linaclotide is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Study guides that cover Linaclotide
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Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
Pharmacy math cheat sheetthe five calculation types the PTCE asks
What changed on the 2026 PTCB examthe new domain weights for 2026See all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
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