Part Two of Zelmac Information, Focusing on Side Effects, Discontinuation or Withdrawal Effects, and Additional Information

This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.

What are the possible side effects of tegaserod?

  • If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to tegaserod, stop taking this medication and seek emergency medical attention.
  • Diarrhea is an occasional side effect of tegaserod. Most often, diarrhea has been reported during the first week of starting tegaserod. Typically, diarrhea diminishes with continued therapy. If severe diarrhea, or diarrhea together with bad cramping, abdominal pain, or dizziness develops, contact your doctor.
  • In studies, patients receiving tegaserod had more abdominal surgery than patients receiving sugar pills. However, it is not known if tegaserod will increase the risk of abdominal surgery. If you suddenly get different or worse abdominal pain, contact your doctor.
  • Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take tegaserod and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • headache, dizziness or migraine;
    • back pain or joint pain; or
    • abdominal pain, nausea or flatulence (gas).
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect tegaserod?

  • Other drugs may interact with tegaserod. Talk your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has additional information about tegaserod written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Limitations and the Source of Our Online Medication Information Database

Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.

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Version: 1.02. Revision date: 3/11/03.