What Is Lubiprostone? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Lubiprostone is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of constipation in adults. You may know it by its brand name, Amitiza. It's been FDA-approved since 2006 and is one of the few medications in its class — a chloride channel activator — designed specifically to address the underlying physiology of chronic constipation rather than just softening stool. Here is everything you need to know about Lubiprostone in 2026.

What Is Lubiprostone?

Lubiprostone (brand name: Amitiza) is a locally acting chloride channel activator that works in the intestine to increase the secretion of chloride-rich fluid. This fluid softens stool, speeds up intestinal transit, and makes bowel movements easier. Because it acts locally with minimal absorption into the bloodstream, it has relatively few systemic side effects compared to some other prescription constipation treatments.

It was originally developed by Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, approved by the FDA in January 2006, and is now manufactured as a generic. The brand Amitiza is owned by Mallinckrodt and was marketed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company in the United States.

What Is Lubiprostone FDA-Approved For?

Lubiprostone is FDA-approved for three conditions:

1. Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) in adults (approved 2006): Constipation lasting 3+ months with no identifiable cause. This is the most common use.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) in women ≥18 years (approved 2008): Bowel syndrome characterized by abdominal pain and constipation. Note: This indication is approved only in adult women.
3. Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) in adults with chronic non-cancer pain (approved 2013): Constipation caused by opioid pain medications in patients being treated for ongoing, non-cancer pain.

What Are the Available Doses and Forms?

Lubiprostone comes as soft gelatin capsules in two strengths:

• 8 mcg capsule (pink): Used for IBS-C (8 mcg twice daily in adult women)
• 24 mcg capsule (orange): Used for CIC and OIC (24 mcg twice daily)

How Should You Take Lubiprostone?

• Take with food and water — this is the most important instruction, as taking it with food significantly reduces nausea
• Swallow the capsule whole — do not open, chew, crush, or cut it
• Take twice daily — typically morning and evening, approximately 12 hours apart
• Store at room temperature (68–77°F), in a cool dry place away from heat and light

Who Should NOT Take Lubiprostone?

Lubiprostone is contraindicated (should not be used) in patients who have:

• Known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction (a physical blockage in the bowel)
• Severe diarrhea (Lubiprostone can worsen diarrhea — don't use it if you already have severe diarrhea)

Caution is also needed for patients with severe liver disease (dose adjustment required), patients taking methadone (reduced efficacy), and women who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Is Lubiprostone a Controlled Substance?

No. Lubiprostone is not a controlled substance and is not scheduled by the DEA. Unlike opioids, stimulants, or benzodiazepines, Lubiprostone has no abuse potential, no dependency risk, and no special prescribing restrictions. It can be prescribed by any licensed provider, including via telehealth, and refills are not subject to federal refill limitations.

Is There a Generic?

Yes. Generic Lubiprostone became available after Amitiza's patents expired around 2024–2025. It is FDA-approved as therapeutically equivalent to brand Amitiza. The generic is manufactured by several companies including Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. Generic Lubiprostone typically costs $60–$150 for a 30-day supply at retail prices, compared to $400–$530 for brand Amitiza — a savings of up to 85%.

Learn More

Want to understand how Lubiprostone actually works inside your body? Read our guide on Lubiprostone's mechanism of action explained in plain English. And if you need help finding it at a pharmacy near you, medfinder can help you locate it.