Overview

Lynavoy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus (itching caused by reduced bile flow) associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in adults. It is intended for adults with PBC-related cholestatic pruritus, and prescribing information states that it should be avoided in individuals with decompensated cirrhosis (liver scarring) or prior or active hepatic decompensation events, such as variceal hemorrhage (bleeding from enlarged veins), ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen), or hepatic encephalopathy (brain problems caused by liver disease). Lynavoy is also known by its drug name, linerixibat.

Lynavoy is an ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor. It works by reducing the reabsorption of bile acids in the intestine, which is thought to lower bile acid buildup and help relieve the itching linked to PBC.

How do I take it?

Prescribing information states that Lynavoy is taken by mouth twice daily. The tablets should be swallowed whole at least 30 minutes before any food or beverage other than water, and the drug should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects

Common side effects of Lynavoy include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT, a liver test), hemorrhage (bleeding), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST, a liver test), headache, dyspepsia (indigestion), gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux), abdominal distension (bloating), dizziness, and arthralgia (joint pain).

Rare but serious side effects may include liver test elevations, severe or persistent diarrhea that may lead to dehydration, fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, bleeding, and fractures (broken bones).

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Lynavoy (Linerixibat) Tablets, for Oral Use — GlaxoSmithKline