Medication

Zelnorm

Generic name:

Pharmacist-reviewed drug information from the RxWiki encyclopedia.

Overview

Zelnorm is a prescription medication used in the short-term treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in women whose main symptom is constipation. It is also used to treat a condition called chronic idiopathic constipation. Zelnorm belongs to a group of drugs called serotonin agonists. These work by improving muscle movement and increasing production of fluid in the bowels.

This medication comes as an oral (by mouth) tablet and is usually taken 2 times a day on an empty stomach. 

Common side effects of Zelnorm include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, headache.

Zelnorm can also cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Zelnorm affects you.

What is it used for?

Zelnorm is a prescription medication used in the short-term treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in women whose primary symptom is constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that causes stomach pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

It is also used to treat a condition called chronic idiopathic constipation in people who are less than 65 years old. Chronic idiopathic constipation is constipation of unknown cause that cannot be attributed to any diseases or medication.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side effects

Serious side effects have been reported with Zelnorm. See the "Zelnorm Precautions" section.

Common side effects of Zelnorm include the following:

  • stomach pain
  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • gas
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • back pain

This is not a complete list of Zelnorm side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

All information on this site is provided “as-is” for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. You should consult with a medical professional if you have any questions about your health.