Zelnorm

Generic name:tegaserod [ te-GAS-e-rod ]
Drug class:Serotoninergic neuroenteric modulators

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on Mar 25, 2022.

What is Zelnorm?

Zelnorm increases the action of a chemical called serotonin in the intestines. This speeds the movement of stools through the bowels.

Zelnorm is used to treat severe, chronic, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women under 65 years of age who have constipation (and not diarrhea) as their main bowel problem.

Zelnorm may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Zelnorm is not for use in people with diarrhea as the main symptom of their irritable bowel condition.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to tegaserod, or if you have a history of stroke, heart attack, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), high blood pressure, uncontrolled angina, high cholesterol or triglycerides, diabetes, depression, or anxiety.

You also should not use Zelnorm if you smoke, if you are older than 65 years, if you are overweight, or if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or actions.

Before taking Zelnorm, tell your doctor if you have gallbladder problems, a blockage in your intestines, other stomach or intestinal disorders, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Zelnorm has not been shown to be helpful for men with irritable bowel syndrome. Stop taking Zelnorm and call your doctor at once if you have new or worsening stomach pain, blood in your stools, ongoing diarrhea, severe stomach pain or cramps, or feel like you might pass out.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zelnorm?

You should not use Zelnorm if you are allergic to tegaserod, or if you have:

• a history of stroke, heart attack or transient ischemic attack (TIA);

• untreated or uncontrolled angina (chest pain);

• high blood pressure;

• high cholesterol or triglycerides;

• diabetes;

• depression or anxiety;

• if you smoke;

• if you are older than 65 years;

• if you are overweight; or

• if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or actions.

Before taking Zelnorm, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• diarrhea or if diarrhea is your main symptom of IBS;

• gallbladder problems;

• a blockage in your intestines;

• any other stomach or intestinal disorders;

• kidney disease; or

• liver disease.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use Zelnorm.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known if Zelnorm will harm your unborn baby.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Zelnorm passes into breast milk. You should not breastfeed if you take Zelnorm.

Zelnorm has not been s