Why is this medication prescribed?    
Alosetron is used to treat diarrhea, pain, cramps, and the feeling of an urgent need to have bowel movements caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS; a condition that causes stomach pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea) in women who have diarrhea as their main symptom and have not been helped by other treatments. Alosetron is in a class of medications called serotonin antagonists. Alosetron works by slowing the movement of stool (bowel movements) through the intestines.

How should this medicine be used?    
Alosetron comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken twice a day with or without food. Take alosetron at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take alosetron exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of alosetron. Your doctor will want to talk to you after you have taken the low dose for 4 weeks. If your symptoms are not controlled but you are not experiencing serious side effects of alosetron, your doctor may increase your dose. If you take the increased dose for 4 weeks and your symptoms are still not controlled, alosetron is not likely to help you. Stop taking alosetron and call your doctor.

Alosetron may control IBS but will not cure it. If you and your doctor agree that you should continue to take alosetron after the initial trial period, do not stop taking alosetron without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking alosetron, your IBS symptoms may return within 1 or 2 weeks.

Other uses for this medicine

Alosetron should not be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?    
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose   

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• difficulty in breathing
• quiet behavior
• wobbliness, difficulty in walking
• shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
• seizures

What other information should I know?   

• Keep all appointments with your doctor.
• Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names:  Lotronex®