I'm not going to try to sugarcoat the risks of the drug. They're out there and for good reason. However, I found that researching the stats on the scary side effects (ischemic colitis, and death) are relatively low, as in .08% chance.
Something I find interesting is that when the drug first came out, it was expedited through the FDA approval process, the result being that a lot of people were given the drug that should never have received it because the doctors were unaware of the extreme effects it would have. Elderly women complaining of diarrhea were given the drug without being properly screened for causes other than IBS. Some of these women had histories of constipation and intestinal blockage issues and developed the severe, rare complications as a result of the meds.
Therefore, I realize how imperative it is that you get properly diagnosed, that is, rule out ANY other cause of the D before taking lotronex. Also, you shouldn't have a history of any sort of constipation, other than when you purposely stop yourself up because of the D like we D'ers tend to do.
I found a great forum initially started by the folks who spear-headed the fight to bring lotronex back. Most of the D'ers on that board take lotronex and their stories are great to read if you're thinking of starting the drug! The site is www.ibsselfhelp.com.
I'll keep you posted on my progress!
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Do some research....
