Trulance vs. Linzess: What's the Difference?
Trulance (plecanatide) and Linzess (linaclotide) are both prescription medications used to treat certain types of constipation. While they share a similar therapeutic goal, they belong to different drug classes and have distinct mechanisms of action and indications.
How Do Trulance and Linzess Work?
Linzess is a guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonist [1]. It works by stimulating the secretion of chloride and bicarbonate into the intestinal lumen, which softens stool and increases its frequency [1].
Trulance is also a guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonist [2]. Similar to Linzess, it increases intestinal fluid secretion and transit, which helps to soften stool and facilitate bowel movements [2].
What Conditions Do They Treat?
Linzess is indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adults and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults [1].
Trulance is approved for the treatment of CIC in adults and IBS-C in adult women [2].
What Are the Potential Side Effects?
The most common side effect for both Linzess and Trulance is diarrhea [1][2]. Other potential side effects include abdominal pain, flatulence, and headache [1][2].
When Did These Drugs Become Available?
Linzess was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012 [1]. Trulance received FDA approval in 2017 [2].
What Are the Patent Expirations for These Drugs?
Information on the specific patent expiry dates for Linzess and Trulance can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com. These patents are crucial for determining when generic versions of the drugs may become available. For detailed patent information and timelines, visit DrugPatentWatch.com [3].