Getting an Amitiza Prescription Starts With Finding the Right Doctor

If you're dealing with chronic constipation and think Amitiza (Lubiprostone) might help, you're not alone. Millions of adults in the U.S. struggle with constipation that doesn't respond to over-the-counter remedies. But Amitiza is a prescription medication, so you'll need a doctor to write that script for you.

The good news? You don't necessarily need a specialist. This guide walks you through exactly which doctors can prescribe Amitiza, how to find one near you, and what to expect when you walk into that appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Amitiza?

Amitiza can be prescribed by several types of healthcare providers. Here are the most common:

• Primary care doctors (family medicine or internal medicine) — These are often the first stop. If your constipation is straightforward, your regular doctor can prescribe Amitiza without a specialist referral.
• Gastroenterologists — These are digestive system specialists. If you've tried other treatments without success, or if your doctor suspects an underlying GI condition, a gastroenterologist is the next step.
• Pain management specialists — If you're taking opioids for chronic non-cancer pain and dealing with opioid-induced constipation (OIC), your pain management doctor can prescribe Amitiza specifically for that.
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants — In most states, NPs and PAs can prescribe Amitiza independently or under physician supervision.

If you already have a primary care provider, that's the easiest place to start. They can evaluate your symptoms, rule out other causes, and either prescribe Amitiza directly or refer you to a specialist.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Don't have a doctor yet, or need to find one who's familiar with Amitiza? Here are your best options:

1. Check Your Insurance Provider Directory

If you have health insurance, your plan's online directory is the fastest way to find in-network providers. Look for gastroenterologists or primary care doctors in your area. Most insurance websites let you filter by specialty, location, and whether the provider is accepting new patients.

This matters because Amitiza often requires prior authorization from insurance, so staying in-network can simplify the process.

2. Use Zocdoc or Healthgrades

Websites like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Vitals let you search for doctors by specialty, insurance accepted, and patient ratings. You can often book an appointment online without making a phone call. Search for "gastroenterologist" or "primary care" in your zip code.

3. Ask for a Referral

If you already see a doctor for another condition, ask them for a referral. They can point you to a colleague who handles chronic constipation or IBS. This is especially helpful if your insurance requires referrals to see specialists.

4. Try Telehealth

You don't always need to visit a doctor's office in person. Telehealth platforms can connect you with providers who can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe Amitiza remotely. This is a great option if you live in a rural area or have mobility challenges.

Many primary care and GI practices now offer virtual visits. Check with your insurance plan to see if telehealth appointments are covered.

5. Community Health Centers

If you're uninsured or underinsured, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) offer care on a sliding-fee scale. You can find one near you at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov. These centers have providers who can prescribe Amitiza and help you access patient assistance programs.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Walking into an appointment prepared can save time and help your doctor determine if Amitiza is right for you. Here's what to bring and what to expect:

Before the Visit

• Track your symptoms — Keep a journal for at least a week noting how often you have bowel movements, stool consistency, straining, bloating, and pain.
• List your current medications — Include prescription drugs, over-the-counter products (like Miralax or Colace), and any supplements.
• Note what you've already tried — Doctors often need to see that you've tried simpler treatments first (fiber supplements, stool softeners, osmotic laxatives) before prescribing Amitiza, especially if your insurance requires step therapy.

During the Visit

Your doctor will likely:

• Ask about your medical history and current symptoms
• Perform a physical exam (possibly including an abdominal exam)
• Discuss your diet, fluid intake, and activity level
• Review any medications that could cause constipation (especially opioids)
• Possibly order blood tests or imaging to rule out other conditions

Be honest about how constipation affects your daily life. Doctors take this condition more seriously when they understand the real impact on your quality of life.

The Prescription Conversation

If your doctor agrees that Amitiza is appropriate, they'll write a prescription. A few things to know:

• For chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), the typical dose is 24 mcg twice daily
• For IBS with constipation (IBS-C) in women, the typical dose is 8 mcg twice daily
• For opioid-induced constipation (OIC), the typical dose is 24 mcg twice daily
• Your doctor may need to submit a prior authorization to your insurance

Don't be afraid to ask about cost. Brand-name Amitiza can cost $400 to $530 per month without insurance, but generic Lubiprostone is available for $60 to $150, which can make a big difference.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once you have your Amitiza prescription in hand, here are your next steps:

Fill It at the Right Pharmacy

Not every pharmacy keeps Amitiza or generic Lubiprostone on the shelf. Use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it in stock before making a trip.

Understand Your Insurance Coverage

If your insurance requires prior authorization, your doctor's office will handle the paperwork. This can take a few days, so plan ahead. If it's denied, ask your doctor about an appeal or alternative medications.

Know What to Expect When You Start

Amitiza should be taken with food and water twice daily. The most common side effect is nausea, which affects up to 29% of patients. Taking it with food helps reduce this. You can learn more about Amitiza side effects and when to call your doctor.

Schedule a Follow-Up

Your doctor will likely want to see you again in 4 to 8 weeks to check how the medication is working. Keep tracking your symptoms so you can give an accurate update.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor to prescribe Amitiza doesn't have to be complicated. Start with your primary care doctor, use online tools to find specialists if needed, and don't overlook telehealth as a convenient option. The most important thing is to advocate for yourself — chronic constipation is a real medical condition that deserves real treatment.

Ready to fill your prescription? Use Medfinder to find a pharmacy near you that has Amitiza in stock right now.