Trulance vs Linzess – Differences, Similarities, Cost Comparison

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects millions of Americans across all age groups. IBS can be frustrating, embarrassing, and even painful. Luckily, medications that are available to help treat this condition, such as Trulance and Linzess. But what is the difference between these medications, and which one is right for you?

This article will discuss Trulance vs Linzess, including the side effects, cost comparisons, and which is more effective. Here is a quick takeaway answer to get us started before we dive into the details.

Trulance vs Linzess: Trulance and Linzess are prescription drugs used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC). Both medications are proven to be effective. However, they have different active ingredients, which patients need to consider for allergy purposes. 

Now that you have the quick answer let’s get into the specifics around Trulance vs Linzess.

About Trulance

Trulance is a prescription drug manufactured by Salix Pharmaceuticals. The active ingredient contained in this medication is plecanatide.

It comes in 3 mg tablets that are taken once a day. It can be taken with or without food at any time during the day. If you cannot swallow the tablets, then you can crush it into a powder and place it in applesauce.

The tablet can also be dissolved in water. Place the tablet in one ounce of clean, room temperature water. Swirl the contents of the cup until the tablet falls apart and take the mixture right away.

Trulance should be stored at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

About Linzess

Linzess is manufactured by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, and the active ingredient is linaclotide.

This medication comes in three different doses, which include 72 mcg, 145 mcg, and 290 mcg. Linzess is taken once a day, just like with Trulance, except it should be taken on an empty stomach.

This medicine comes in the form of a capsule and not a tablet. If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, then you can open it up and sprinkle the contents in applesauce or one ounce of water.

Linzess should be stored in the same way as Trulance. Ensure the medication container is tightly secured and in a dry place.

How They Work – Trulance vs Linzess

Trulance and Linzess work in the same way by reducing pain in the abdomen and accelerating bowel movements.

There is a natural process that is supposed to occur in your body after you eat. After the food is broken down in the stomach and enters the small intestines, fluid helps in the digestion process by helping form stools. If there is too little fluid, then constipation can result. Too much fluid can lead to diarrhea.

Therefore, Trulance and Linzess mimic this natural process by increasing the fluid in the small intestines.

Side Effects – Trulance vs Linzess

The side effects of Trulance may include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Gas

The most common side effects of Linzess may include:

• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Swelling
• Pressure in the abdomen

The most common side effect patients experience on either one of these medications is diarrhea. Diarrhea can be severe and may need medical attention. Stop taking the medication if it becomes severe.

Safety Information & Warnings for Trulance vs Linzess

As with all medications, both Trulance and Linzess come with warnings and safety information. Here is a breakdown of that information.

Patients should not take Trulance or Linzess if they are allergic to any of the medication’s ingredients.

The safety and efficacy of both these prescription drugs have not been determined for patients under 18 years of age. Do not give either medication to a child under the age of 6 years old. Patients between 6 years old and 18 years old should not be given either medicine.

Before patients take Trulance or Linzess, they must let their doctor know if they are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It is not known if these medicines will cause harm to an unborn baby. It is not known if they will pass through breast milk, causing harm to a nursing child.

Neither medication should be taken if your doctor has told you that you have a bowel blockage (intestinal obstruction).

As mentioned above, the most common side effect is diarrhea, which can become severe. Diarrhea most often occurs within the first two weeks of taking Linzess and within the first four weeks of taking Trulance. Call your doctor immediately and stop taking the medication if it becomes severe.

Talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Drug interactions are not likely, but can still occur, leading to adverse reactions.

Cost Comparison of Trulance vs Linzess

The out-of-pocket retail price for 30 tablets of Trulance is around $465. The out-of-pocket retail price for Linzess is around $474 for 30 capsules that are 72 mcg. In some cases, generic alternatives are available at a lower cost. However, there are no generic versions to either Trulance or Linzess.

It is important to note that these prices do not take into account insurance. The price you actually pay will depend upon your specific coverage and the pharmacy you go to.

However, if you go through Prescription Hope, both Trulance and Linzess will be just $50 a month.

Is Trulance or Linzess More Effective?

Trulance and Linzess have both been approved by the FDA and have been proven to be safe and effective at treating IBS-C and CIC. However, each person will respond differently. Therefore, your doctor will be able to tell you which medication will be most effective for your specific condition.

Some benefits of Trulance are that it can be taken with or without food. So, if you prefer to take your medication whenever you want without considering food consumption, then Trulance might be better for you. If you’re on other medications or are taking other supplements, then Trulance may also be better for you, as it is less likely to interact with other drugs.

On the other hand, Linzess offers multiple dosing options. So, it may be easier for you and your doctor to find the right dose for you if you take Linzess.

Some patients may suffer more side effects under one drug versus the other. So, the decision for which drug you are prescribed must be made between you and your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

We hope this has given you more insight into Trulance vs Linzess. For questions regarding your specific condition and treatment, consult your doctor.

If you are struggling to afford your medication or believe you are paying too much, then Prescription Hope may be able to help. We work directly with pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide patients with the brand-name drugs they need at a set, affordable cost. Enroll with us and start saving money.